The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions based on carrageenan as an active ingredient, for use as a medicament in the prophylactic or therapeutic treatment of allergic conditions or diseases, with the proviso that the carrageenan comprises iota- and/or kappa-carrageenan and is substantially free of lambda carrageenan. Typically, the invention relates to liquid formulations, gels and dry powder compositions comprising iota- and/or kappa-carrageenan and, optionally, one or more non-carrageenan therapeutic agents for administration to the respiratory tract, the gastrointestinal tract or the eyes. The compositions of the invention have been found to be efficacious in the prevention and treatment of type I allergies and additionally, may exert an adjuvant function upon combined mucosal administration with non-carrageenan therapeutic agents.
