In 1990 study in San Diego, CA the 5 active subjects with allergic rhinitis had a lowered total serum IgE from Day 0 to Day 90 while 4 placebo subjects, (2 with allergic rhinitis, 1 with asthma and 1 with both), had flat or increased IgE levels.4 In a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled study of symptoms and serum IgE levels in San Diego, CA in mid-1991, subjects had allergic rhinitis and/or asthma. Serum was drawn at Day 0 and Day 30. Seven of the 10 active treated subjects had a reduction in total serum IgE levels. In 10 placebo treated subjects, 5 had levels of total serum IgE that stayed the same (plus or minus 5%), 3 decreased and 2 increased.5 Statistical analysis of the open-label study as well as the double-blind randomized placebo controlled study have shown a significant effect of vitamin B12 in lowering serum IgE concentrations.

With no further treatment, the 1996 ten-month follow-up data (n=92) from a high pollen period in Oregon, Washington and Idaho together showed a greater reduction in the active group (n=43) than the placebo group (n=49) on the primary endpoint, defined as a combination of symptom and rescue medication scores.8 Patients gave blood serum samples prior to the treatment in 1995 and one year later in 1996. They were immunoassayed for specific IgE antibodies using a chemi-luminescent technique. Statistician Bradley Rosebrook ran T-Tests comparing average baseline IgE levels to one-year. For the seasonal allergens reported, the active group (n=27) had on average a greater reduction in IgE than the placebo group (n=34) for 13 out of 16 allergens.8

Topical nasal steroids Topical nasal steroids are anti-inflammatory drugs that stop the allergic reaction. In addition to other beneficial actions, they reduce the number of mast cells in the nose and reduce mucus secretion and nasal swelling. The combination of antihistamines and nasal steroids is a very effective way to treat allergic rhinitis. This medication should not be confused with anabolic steroids that have serious side effects. Cromolyn sodium Cromolyn sodium stops allergic reactions from starting. It is administered as a nasal spray, and it can prevent the release of chemicals like histamine from the mast cell. Click here for allergy medication online.