Analysis of the intranasal distribution of ointment.

OBJECTIVE: The use of intranasal ointment sniffed into the nasal cavity is widely recommended as a method to lubricate the nose and to prevent drying and crusting of the nasal mucosa and secretions. This therapy is often prescribed to patients with problems with minor episodes of epistaxis, after nasal packing has been removed, and in patients complaining of excessive dryness or crusting within the nose. Various preparations have been used for this purpose. At our institution Polysporin ointment is one of the commonly used preparations. This study evaluated the distribution of Polysporin ointment within the nasal cavities of subjects with no symptoms related to the nasal cavity. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the study raise doubts about the effectiveness of this therapy.