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Compare Flonase vs. Rhinocort Allergy

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

Key takeaways

Flonase (fluticasone) and Rhinocort Allergy (budesonide) are both corticosteroid nasal sprays used to treat allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itching. They have several differences. Flonase and Rhinocort are both available in prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) forms and as lower-cost generics. Flonase comes in two formulations: Flonase Allergy Relief and Flonase Sensimist, with the latter being a gentler mist. Rhinocort Allergy typically requires one spray per nostril daily, but adults may need up to four sprays per nostril if symptoms persist. Flonase can be used in children as young as 2 years old (for Sensimist) and 4 years old (for Allergy Relief), whereas Rhinocort Allergy is approved for children 6 years and older. Both medications can cause side effects like nosebleeds and may slow growth in children if used long-term.

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  • Fluticasone nasal spray
    Budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy)
  • Fluticasone nasal spray
    Budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy)

  • Summary of Flonase vs. Rhinocort Allergy

    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

    Budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy) is an over-the-counter (OTC) nasal spray for adults and children age 6 years and older. It's a corticosteroid that relieves nasal allergy symptoms, such as runny or stuffy nose, itchy nose, and sneezing. Budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy) is sprayed into each nostril once per day. Side effects can include nose bleeds and irritation in the nose. This medication is available as a generic.

  • Indications of Flonase vs. Rhinocort Allergy

    Indications for

    Nasal symptoms from allergies, such as:

    •Congestion
    •Runny nose
    •Sneezing
    •Itchy nose
    •Itchy, watery eyes
    Indications for
    •Nasal allergy symptoms (e.g., runny nose, stuffy nose, itchy nose, sneezing)

  • Pros and Cons of Flonase vs. Rhinocort Allergy

    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
    •First-choice medication for treating nasal allergy symptoms
    •Only used once per day
    •Available over the counter
    •Can be used for children as young as 6 years old
    Cons
    •Might cause nose bleeds
    •Might take up to 2 weeks to feel the full benefits from the medication
    •Not meant for relieving nasal symptoms related to the common cold

  • Common Side Effects of Flonase vs. Rhinocort Allergy

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (7-16%)
    •Sore throat (6-8%)
    •Nosebleeds (6-7%)
    •Asthma symptoms (3-7%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Bloody nose (8%)
    •Sore throat (4%)

  • Warnings of Flonase vs. Rhinocort Allergy

    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
    •Nose bleeds, discomfort, and injury
    •Risk of infection
    •Altered stress hormone levels
    •Delayed growth in children
    •Allergic reactions
    •Eye and vision problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Flonase vs. Rhinocort Allergy

    Learn more about Fluticasone nasal spray
    Learn more about Budesonide

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