Key takeaways
Nasonex (mometasone) and Rhinocort (budesonide) are both corticosteroid nasal sprays used to treat allergy symptoms, but they have some differences. Both medications are available both over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription. Nasonex can be used in children as young as 2 years old for OTC use, whereas Rhinocort is approved for children 6 years and older. Nasonex is used for relief of allergy symptoms, prevention of seasonal allergies, and treatment of nasal polyps, while Rhinocort is primarily for nasal allergy symptoms. Both medications can cause side effects like nosebleeds, but Nasonex may also cause headaches and viral infections. Rhinocort might take up to 2 weeks to show full benefits, similar to Nasonex, but it has a higher maximum dose for adults. Both medications are available in lower-cost generic forms.
