Ragweed pollen is the most frequent cause of allergic rhinitis in the late summer-fall in North America. The objectives of this multicenter, randomized, single-blind study are to assess the efficacy and safety of triamcinolone acetonide aqueous (TAA AQ) and beclomethasone dipropionate aqueous (BDP) in the treatment of adult patients with seasonal ragweed-induced allergic rhinitis. Patient's self-assessment of comfort with medication and health-related quality of life were also assessed. A total of 152 patients were randomized to treatment with TAA AQ 200 micrograms once daily in the morning (n = 75) or BDP twice-daily 336 micrograms/day (n = 77). Both treatments were shown to be effective in alleviating the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, with no significant differences between the two treatments in mean reduction from baseline of nasal stuffiness, discharge, nasal index (sum of discharge, stuffiness, and sneezing), itching, and total eye symptoms. There were no significant differences between treatments in quality of life scores. However, TAA AQ was described by patients as having a better taste and smell than aqueous BDP (p < or = 0.05). Both treatments were well tolerated and associated with a similar incidence of adverse events. These results show that both once-daily TAA AQ 220 micrograms and twice-daily BDP 336 micrograms are well tolerated and effective in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis. In addition, both treatments are equally as effective at improving patient health-related quality of life. However, patients preferred the odor and taste of TAA AQ over BDP. It is likely that once-daily dosing and patient preference for the sensory attributes of TAA AQ may enhance treatment compliance.