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Compare Flonase vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Flonase (fluticasone) and Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief (ibuprofen/phenylephrine/chlorpheniramine) are both used to treat allergy symptoms, but they work differently and are used in different ways. Flonase is a corticosteroid nasal spray that reduces inflammation in your nose to relieve symptoms like congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. It is available both as a prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medication and must be used daily for the best results. On the other hand, Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief is a combination of an antihistamine (chlorpheniramine), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ibuprofen, and a decongestant (phenylephrine). Studies show oral phenylephrine isn't an effective decongestant. This makes Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief not the best option to relieve congestion. It is taken orally and provides short-term relief for a wide range of symptoms, including minor aches and pains. Unlike Flonase, which is used once daily, Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief can be taken every 4 hours. Additionally, Flonase can be used in children as young as 2 years old (for certain formulations), while Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief is not recommended for children under 12 years old.

  • Fluticasone nasal spray
    Advil allergy and congestion relief
  • Fluticasone nasal spray
    Advil allergy and congestion relief

  • Summary of Flonase vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Summary for Corticosteroid

    Fluticasone nasal spray is used to treat allergy symptoms, like runny nose and sneezing. Fluticasone nasal spray comes in brand and generic forms, and is available by a prescription or over-the-counter (OTC). Fluticasone nasal spray must be used daily in order for you to experience the maximum benefits. But if you're using OTC versions of this medication, don't use it for more than 6 months at a time (or 2 months at a time, for children) without first speaking to your provider.

    Summary for Antihistamine / NSAID / Decongestant

    Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief is a combination of three medications, chlorpheniramine (antihistamine), ibuprofen (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)), and phenylephrine (decongestant). It's available over the counter (OTC) and used to treat symptoms from allergies and the common cold.

  • Indications of Flonase vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Indications for

    Nasal symptoms from allergies, such as:

    •Congestion
    •Runny nose
    •Sneezing
    •Itchy nose
    •Itchy, watery eyes
    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of symptoms from allergies and the common cold: runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itchy nose or throat, sneezing, nasal congestion, sinus pressure, headache, minor aches and pains, fever
    •Lowers swelling in the sinuses around the nose
    •Restores breathing through the nose

  • Pros and Cons of Flonase vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Only has to be used once a day and can last up to 24 hours
    •Available OTC
    •Some formulations have generic versions
    •Can be used safely in children as young as 4 years old
    •Flonase Sensimist is a gentler version that can be used in children as young as 2 years old
    Cons
    •Not a good option if you have an injured nose or had recent nasal surgery
    •Can raise the risk of bleeding and fungal infections in the nose
    •Can slow down growth rate in children if used for longer than 2 months per year
    •Can raise the risk for certain eye problems
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine / NSAID / Decongestant
    Pros
    •Can treat a wide variety of allergy and common cold symptoms
    •More convenient to take three medications in one pill
    •Available over the counter
    Cons
    •Needs to be taken every 4 hours
    •More difficult to customize the dose since Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief is a combination of three medications
    •Can cause stomach bleeding or stomach ulcers
    •Can't be used in children younger than 12 years old, right before or after heart surgery, or with current or recent (within the last 14 days) use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

  • Common Side Effects of Flonase vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (7-16%)
    •Sore throat (6-8%)
    •Nosebleeds (6-7%)
    •Asthma symptoms (3-7%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness
    •Sleepiness
    •Constipation
    •Upset stomach
    •Heartburn
    •Nausea
    •Headache
    •Dry mouth

  • Warnings of Flonase vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Common Side Effects for
    •Nasal problems
    •Slowed growth rate in children
    •Eye problems
    •Higher risk of infections
    •Stress hormone problems (adrenal gland problems)
    •Serious allergic reactions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach bleeding
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Worsening of medical conditions
    •Accidental overdose
    •Potential harm to unborn baby

  • Prices with our coupons for Flonase vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Learn more about Fluticasone nasal spray
    Learn more about Advil allergy and congestion relief

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