Compare Nedocromil vs. Azelastine
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Alocril (nedocromil) and azelastine are both used to treat allergy symptoms, but they work differently and are used in different ways. Alocril (nedocromil) is an eye drop that helps with itchy and watery eyes caused by allergies. It is a mast cell stabilizer, which means it stops cells in your eyes from releasing chemicals that cause allergic reactions. You need a prescription for Alocril, and it is not the first-choice treatment for eye allergies. Common side effects include headaches and eye irritation. On the other hand, azelastine is a nasal spray that treats nasal allergy symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose. It is an antihistamine, which blocks histamine to relieve symptoms. Azelastine is available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms, with the prescription version also treating non-allergy-related nasal symptoms. Side effects can include a bitter taste and sleepiness. While Alocril is specifically for eye symptoms, azelastine targets nasal symptoms and can be used more broadly.
- Alocril (nedocromil)Azelastine nasal spray
- Alocril (nedocromil)Azelastine nasal spray
Summary of Nedocromil vs. Azelastine
Summary for Mast cell stabilizerPrescription onlyAlocril (nedocromil) is an eye drop for eye-related allergy symptoms, such as itchiness or watery eyes. Typically, you place 1 to 2 drops into your eyes twice daily. But it's not a first-choice option for allergy symptoms. Some common side effects of this medication include headaches and eye irritation.
Summary for AntihistaminePrescription onlyAzelastine nasal spray is an antihistamine that treats allergies and nasal symptoms, such as runny or stuffy nose. The 0.1% and 0.15% strengths of the azelastine nasal spray are available with a prescription for adults and children. It's sprayed into the nostrils typically twice a day. Prescription azelastine nasal spray is a lower-cost generic. Possible side effects include a bitter taste in the mouth and nasal discomfort. <br/> Note: Azelastine 0.15% nasal spray is also available over the counter under the brand name Astepro Allergy.
Indications of Nedocromil vs. Azelastine
Indications for•Itchy or watery eyes from allergyIndications for•Seasonal allergy symptoms related to the nose•Year-round allergy symptoms related to the nose - azelastine 0.15% spray only•Runny or stuffy nose that isn't caused by allergies - azelastine 0.1% spray onlyPros and Cons of Nedocromil vs. Azelastine
Pros and Const for Mast cell stabilizerPros•Relieves itchy and red eyes due to allergies•Can be combined with oral allergy medications•Can be used in children age 3 years and olderCons•Requires a prescription•Not a first-line treatment option for allergy-related itchy eyes•Often causes headachePros and Const for AntihistaminePros•Works well to relieve nasal symptoms during allergy season•Sprayed directly into the nose•Available in two different strengths (0.1% and 0.15%)Cons•Doesn't have a counter to keep track of the number of sprays you have left in the bottle•Can leave a bitter taste in your mouth (but it goes away)•Can cause sleepiness in some people•Might need to use twice a dayCommon Side Effects of Nedocromil vs. Azelastine
Common Side Effects for•Headache (40%)•Eye burning, stinging, or irritation (10-30%)•Unpleasant taste in the mouth (10-30%)•Stuffy nose (10-30%)Common Side Effects forAzelastine 0.1% nasal spray:
•Bitter taste in the mouth (20%)•Headache (15%)•Sleepiness (12%)•Nasal burning (4%)Azelastine 0.15% nasal spray:
•Bitter taste in the mouth (4%)•Nasal discomfort (4%)Warnings of Nedocromil vs. Azelastine
Common Side Effects for•Contamination of dropper tip and solution•Avoid contact lensesCommon Side Effects for•Possible sleepiness and difficulty concentratingPrices with our coupons for Nedocromil vs. Azelastine
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