Key takeaways
Beconase AQ (beclomethasone) and Rhinocort Allergy (budesonide) are both corticosteroid nasal sprays used to treat nasal allergy symptoms. Beconase AQ is available only by prescription, while Rhinocort Allergy can be purchased over-the-counter and as a lower-cost generic. Beconase AQ is typically used twice daily, whereas Rhinocort Allergy is used once per day. Beconase AQ can also prevent nasal polyps from regrowing after surgery, a use not mentioned for Rhinocort Allergy. Rhinocort Allergy may start to relieve symptoms within 1 to 2 days, but it can take up to 2 weeks for full effects, similar to Beconase AQ. However, Rhinocort Allergy can affect children's growth if used long-term. Both medications can cause side effects like nasal irritation and nosebleeds, but Beconase AQ may also cause sneezing attacks.
