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Flonase vs. Albuterol

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

Key takeaways

Fluticasone nasal spray (Flonase, Flonase Sensimist) and albuterol inhaler (Ventolin, ProAir) are both used to treat respiratory conditions, but they belong to different medication classes and have distinct uses. Fluticasone is a corticosteroid used to treat nasal allergy symptoms like congestion and runny nose, while albuterol is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA) used as a rescue inhaler for sudden wheezing or shortness of breath in conditions like asthma. Fluticasone is available over-the-counter and by prescription, and it is used daily, whereas albuterol is prescription-only and used as needed. Fluticasone comes in nasal spray form, while albuterol is inhaled through the mouth using an inhaler. Common side effects of fluticasone include headache and nosebleeds, while albuterol can cause sore throat and throat irritation. Fluticasone's long-term use can increase the risk of infections and eye problems.

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Albuterol

 

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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 Albuterol

Prescription only

Albuterol sulfate is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA). It's a rescue inhaler that treats or prevents sudden wheezing or shortness of breath in adults and children at least 4 years old with certain breathing problems, such as asthma. Albuterol is inhaled through the mouth using either an HFA inhaler (or metered dose inhaler) or a dry powder inhaler. The typical dose is 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours as needed when you suddenly have trouble breathing. Albuterol side effects generally include sore throat, throat irritation, and infections.

Indications for Albuterol

  • Treatment or prevention of wheezing or tightening of airways in people ages 4 years and older with certain types of lung problems (e.g., asthma)
  • Prevention of exercise-induced asthma in people ages 4 years and older

Pros and Cons for Albuterol

Pros

  • Works within minutes to help you breathe easier when you have an asthma attack or trouble breathing
  • Only used as needed when you're short of breath or when you're about to exercise
  • Can be used by children as young as 4 years old
  • Available as two types of inhalers: HFA inhaler (or metered dose inhaler) and dry powder inhaler

Cons

  • Might have to use the inhaler multiple times per day since it's a short-acting medication
  • Might be difficult for some people to use the inhaler properly
  • Should carry with you at all times so you can use it when you need to

Common Side Effects for Albuterol

Note: Side effects you might have can depend on your age, dose, the type of albuterol inhaler you're using, and how often you're using the inhaler.

Warnings for Albuterol

  • Breathing problems
  • Heart problems
  • Low potassium in the blood
  • Allergic reactions

Prices with our coupons for Flonase vs. Albuterol

Price Card Drug Icon
Fluticasone Propionate1 nasal spray / 16g of 50mcg
$14.67$46.99
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Albuterol1 hfa inhaler / 18g of 90mcg
$32.10$45.46
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