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Compare Flonase vs. Flunisolide

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

Key takeaways

Flonase (fluticasone) and flunisolide are both corticosteroid nasal sprays used to treat allergy symptoms like congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. Flonase is available both over-the-counter and by prescription, while flunisolide is only available with a prescription. Flonase can be used by people as young as 2 years old, whereas flunisolide is approved for use in individuals 6 years and older. Flonase comes in two formulations: Flonase Allergy Relief and Flonase Sensimist, with the latter being a gentler mist. Flunisolide, on the other hand, is only available in one formulation. Flonase typically requires once daily dosing, while flunisolide is usually taken twice daily. Both medications can cause side effects like nosebleeds and slowed growth in children, but flunisolide has a higher incidence of nasal burning and stinging.

  • Fluticasone nasal spray
    Flunisolide
  • Fluticasone nasal spray
    Flunisolide

  • Summary of Flonase vs. Flunisolide

    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 Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Flunisolide is a steroid nasal spray for seasonal or year-round allergies. It treats allergy symptoms that are related to the nose, such as congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. This medication is for people 6 years and older. Depending on your age, the dosage is 1 or 2 sprays into each nostril a few times a day. The most common side effect is temporary burning and stinging in the nose. The brand name Nasalide is discontinued, but generic flunisolide is still available.

  • Indications of Flonase vs. Flunisolide

    Indications for

    Nasal symptoms from allergies, such as:

    •Congestion
    •Runny nose
    •Sneezing
    •Itchy nose
    •Itchy, watery eyes
    Indications for
    •Nasal symptoms caused by seasonal or year-round allergies (e.g., runny nose, sneezing)

  • Pros and Cons of Flonase vs. Flunisolide

    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 Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •A non-drowsy allergy medication
    •Okay for children 6 years and older to use
    •Has fewer side effects than steroid pills that are taken by mouth
    Cons
    •Need to use regularly to get the most benefit from the medication
    •Doesn't help with other allergy symptoms, like watery, itchy eyes or sore throat
    •Not available over the counter

  • Common Side Effects of Flonase vs. Flunisolide

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (7-16%)
    •Sore throat (6-8%)
    •Nosebleeds (6-7%)
    •Asthma symptoms (3-7%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Temporary burning and stinging in the nose (45%)

  • Warnings of Flonase vs. Flunisolide

    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
    •Changes in stress hormone levels
    •Risk of infection
    •Slowed wound healing
    •Delayed growth in children

  • Prices with our coupons for Flonase vs. Flunisolide

    Learn more about Fluticasone nasal spray
    Learn more about Flunisolide

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