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Compare Nasalcrom vs. Flonase

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

Key takeaways

Cromolyn (NasalCrom) and fluticasone (Flonase) are both nasal sprays used to treat allergy symptoms like a runny or itchy nose. However, they belong to different medication classes. Cromolyn is a mast cell stabilizer, while fluticasone is a corticosteroid. Cromolyn is available over-the-counter and is typically used 3 to 4 times a day, whereas fluticasone can be used once daily and is available both over-the-counter and by prescription. Cromolyn is safe for children as young as 2 years old, while fluticasone is generally recommended for children 4 years and older, though some formulations like Flonase Sensimist can be used in children as young as 2. Common side effects of cromolyn include brief stinging in the nose and nosebleeds, while fluticasone can cause headaches, sore throat, and nosebleeds. Fluticasone may also slow growth in children if used for more than 2 months a year and can increase the risk of eye problems and infections. Cromolyn does not cause rebound congestion, a risk associated with some nasal sprays, and is considered safe for people with high blood pressure.

  • Nasalcrom (cromolyn)
    Fluticasone nasal spray
  • Nasalcrom (cromolyn)
    Fluticasone nasal spray

  • Summary of Nasalcrom vs. Flonase

    Summary for Mast cell stabilizer

    NasalCrom (cromolyn) is a nasal spray that helps prevent and relieve symptoms of hay fever (allergic rhinitis), such as runny, itchy, or stuffy nose. This medication belongs to the drug class called mast cell stabilizers. NasalCrom (cromolyn) is available over the counter for adults and children 2 years of age and older. It's sprayed once into each nostril and can be used 3 or 4 times a day. Side effects can include brief stinging or burning in the nose right after using and nosebleed.

    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.

  • Indications of Nasalcrom vs. Flonase

    Indications for
    •Prevention and relief of nasal allergy symptoms (runny or itchy nose, sneezing, stuffy nose)
    Indications for

    Nasal symptoms from allergies, such as:

    •Congestion
    •Runny nose
    •Sneezing
    •Itchy nose
    •Itchy, watery eyes

  • Pros and Cons of Nasalcrom vs. Flonase

    Pros and Const for Mast cell stabilizer
    Pros
    •Available over the counter
    •Can be used in children 2 years and older
    •Safe to use with other allergy medications
    •Few side effects
    •Doesn't worsen your stuffy nose after a few days of use ("rebound" nasal congestion)
    Cons
    •Takes at least 1 week of everyday use to notice symptom relief
    •Might need to use 3 to 4 times a day
    •Might cause stinging in your nose
    •Might not work as well as steroid nasal sprays and antihistamines
    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

  • Common Side Effects of Nasalcrom vs. Flonase

    Common Side Effects for
    •Brief stinging or burning in the nose right after use
    •Nosebleeds (8%)
    •Headache (6%)
    •Ear infection (6%)
    •Sneezing right after use (5%)
    •Sore throat (5%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (7-16%)
    •Sore throat (6-8%)
    •Nosebleeds (6-7%)
    •Asthma symptoms (3-7%)

  • Warnings of Nasalcrom vs. Flonase

    Common Side Effects for
    •Not appropriate to use for certain medical conditions
    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

  • Prices with our coupons for Nasalcrom vs. Flonase

    Learn more about Nasalcrom
    Learn more about Fluticasone nasal spray

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