Key takeaways
Nasonex (mometasone) and Dymista (azelastine/fluticasone) are both nasal sprays used to treat allergy symptoms, but they have some key differences. Nasonex is a corticosteroid available both over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription, while Dymista is a combination of an antihistamine (azelastine) and a corticosteroid (fluticasone) and is only available by prescription. Nasonex is used for relief of allergy symptoms, prevention of seasonal allergies, and treatment of nasal polyps, whereas Dymista is specifically for seasonal nasal allergies. Nasonex can be used in children as young as 2 years old (OTC) and 12 years old (prescription), while Dymista is approved for children 6 years and older. Dymista works faster, providing relief within 30 minutes, while Nasonex can take 1 to 2 weeks for full effects. Additionally, Dymista may cause drowsiness, unlike Nasonex. Both medications can cause nosebleeds and other side effects, but Dymista also has a risk of causing a bitter taste if it goes into your throat.
