Flonase vs. Flunisolide for Nasal Congestion and Allergic Rhinitis: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

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

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Flunisolide

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Summary for Flonase

Prescription or over-the-counter

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.

Indications for Flonase

Nasal symptoms from allergies, such as:

Congestion
Runny nose
Sneezing
Itchy nose
Itchy, watery eyes

Pros and Cons for Flonase

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

Common Side Effects for Flonase

Headache (7-16%)
Sore throat (6-8%)
Nosebleeds (6-7%)
Asthma symptoms (3-7%)

Warnings for Flonase

Nasal problems
Slowed growth rate in children
Eye problems
Higher risk of infections
Stress hormone problems (adrenal gland problems)
Serious allergic reactions

Summary for Flunisolide

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 for Flunisolide

Nasal symptoms caused by seasonal or year-round allergies (e.g., runny nose, sneezing)

Pros and Cons for Flunisolide

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