Flunisolide vs. Allegra for Allergic Rhinitis: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Flunisolide and fexofenadine (Allegra) are both used to treat allergy symptoms, but they work in different ways and are used differently. Flunisolide is a corticosteroid nasal spray that you use directly in your nose to reduce inflammation and treat symptoms like congestion and sneezing. It requires a prescription and is used regularly for the best results. On the other hand, fexofenadine is an over-the-counter antihistamine taken orally to block histamine and relieve symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Fexofenadine starts working in about 2 hours and can be taken as needed or regularly. Flunisolide is suitable for children 6 years and older, while fexofenadine can be used by children as young as 2 years, depending on the formulation. Flunisolide may cause nasal burning and stinging, while fexofenadine can cause headaches and dry mouth.

Flunisolide

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Fexofenadine

(Allegra)

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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

Common Side Effects for Flunisolide

Temporary burning and stinging in the nose (45%)

Warnings for Flunisolide

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

Summary for Allegra

Over-the-counter

Fexofenadine (Allegra) is an antihistamine. It's used to ease symptoms of allergy and hives in adults and children. Fexofenadine (Allegra) can be found over the counter as a tablet, fast-melting tablet, and liquid. This medication is taken once or twice per day, depending on the formulation. Fexofenadine (Allegra) starts to work in about 2 hours and its effects can last up to 24 hours. Fexofenadine (Allegra) doesn't make you as drowsy compared to some other antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Other possible side effects of fexofenadine (Allegra) include headache and dry mouth.

Indications for Allegra

Short-term relief of allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itchy nose or throat)
Treatment of hives

Pros and Cons for Allegra

Pros

First-choice option for relieving allergy symptoms
Some products can also be used to relieve itchiness from hives.
Available as 12-hour and 24-hour tablets, as well as a liquid and quick-dissolving tablets for those who have a hard time swallowing pills
All formulations available over the counter

Cons

Liquid form might not be the best choice for people on a low-salt diet because it contains sodium
Once-daily formulations not recommended for children younger than 12 years old
Might have a higher risk of side effects if you have liver or kidney problems
Can cause headache