Key takeaways
Triamcinolone (Nasacort) and beclomethasone (Beconase AQ) are both corticosteroid medications used to treat nasal symptoms like congestion, sneezing, and runny nose caused by allergies. However, they have some important differences. Nasacort is available over-the-counter and is used once daily, while Beconase AQ requires a prescription and is used twice daily. Nasacort is available as a lower-cost generic, whereas Beconase AQ is only comes as a branded medication. Beconase AQ is also approved for preventing nasal polyps from regrowing after surgery, while Nasacort is not. Nasacort doesn't commonly cause side effects, but you may get a sore throat temporarily after using it. Beconase AQ may cause nasal irritation and sneezing attacks. Both medications can affect wound healing.
