The efficacy of ICX72 (Sinus Buster), a proprietary homeopathic preparation of Capsicum annum and Eucalyptol, on nonallergic rhinitis (NAR) was investigated in this placebo-controlled study. Forty-two subjects were randomized to ICX72 (n = 20) or control (n = 22) administered twice daily for two weeks. Endpoints included: change in total nasal symptom scores (TNSS) from baseline to end of study; changes in individual symptom scores (ISS) over two weeks; average time to first relief; rhinitis quality-of-life; rescue medication; and safety endpoints. Mean TNSS and ISS were recorded after single dosing at different intervals over 60 minutes. Results revealed that ICX72 subjects exhibited significant differences in changes from baseline to end of study for TNSS and each ISS (P < .01) compared to controls. Average time to first relief was 52.6 seconds (P < .01) for ICX72 patients and improvement in nasal congestion, sinus pain, sinus pressure, and headache were noted at 5, 10, 15, and 30 minutes, persisting at 60 minutes (P < .05). Adverse events and rescue medication were similar between groups. This was the first controlled trial demonstrating that intranasal capsaicin rapidly and safely improves symptoms in rhinitis subjects. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2011 Aug;107(2):171-8. PMID: 21802026.
