Skip to main content

Compare
Phenylephrine vs. Rhinocort Allergy

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

phenylephrine eye drops

 

Get free coupons

Budesonide nasal spray

(Rhinocort Allergy)

Get free coupons

Summary for Phenylephrine

Prescription only

Phenylephrine eye drops are used to dilate (widen) pupils for eye exams or certain eye procedures. Side effects include temporary burning or stinging in the eye, blurry vision, and possibly raise your blood pressure. Let your provider know if your pregnant or breastfeeding because you might need to use a different medication.

Indications for Phenylephrine

  • Dilate (widen) pupils

Pros and Cons for Phenylephrine

Pros

  • Can be used in adults and children
  • Starts working quickly (within 15 minutes)
  • Available as a lower-cost generic medication

Cons

  • Can cause eye pain and stinging
  • Dilating effects can last for up to 7 hours (or longer)
  • The 10% strength can raise blood pressure in people with certain heart or thyroid problems

Common Side Effects for Phenylephrine

  • Temporary stinging or burning in your eye
  • Temporary blurry vision
  • Sensitivity to light

Warnings for Phenylephrine

  • For use in the eyes only
  • Heart problems
  • High blood pressure
  • Rebound pupil constriction

Summary for Rhinocort Allergy

Over-the-counter

Budesonide nasal spray (Rhinocort Allergy) is an over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medication for adults and children age 6 years and older. It's a corticosteroid that relieves nasal allergy symptoms, such as runny or stuffy nose, itchy nose, and sneezing. Budesonide nasal spray (Rhinocort Allergy) is sprayed into each nostril once per day. Side effects can include nose bleeds and irritation in the nose. This medication is available as a generic.

Indications for Rhinocort Allergy

Pros and Cons for Rhinocort Allergy

Pros

  • First-choice medication for treating nasal allergy symptoms
  • Only used once per day
  • Available over the counter
  • Can be used for children as young as 6 years old

Cons

  • Might cause nose bleeds
  • Might take up to 2 weeks to feel the full benefits from the medication
  • Not meant for relieving nasal symptoms related to the common cold

Common Side Effects for Rhinocort Allergy

  • Bloody nose (8%)
  • Sore throat (4%)

Warnings for Rhinocort Allergy

  • Nose bleeds, discomfort, and injury
  • Risk of infection
  • Altered stress hormone levels
  • Delayed growth in children
  • Allergic reactions
  • Eye and vision problems

Prices with our coupons for Phenylephrine vs. Rhinocort Allergy

Price Card Drug Icon
Phenylephrine1 eye dropper / 2ml of 2.5%
$21.67$40.99
Get free coupons
More Information
Price Card Drug Icon
Rhinocort Allergy1 nasal spray / 60 sprays of 32mcg
--
Get free coupons
More Information

Browse medications by letter

Show All

Browse prescription and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.