Qnasl vs. Allegra for Allergic Rhinitis: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Beclomethasone (Qnasl) and fexofenadine (Allegra) are both used to treat allergy symptoms, but they belong to different medication classes. Beclomethasone is a corticosteroid nasal spray that reduces inflammation in the nose to relieve symptoms like stuffy or runny nose, while fexofenadine is an oral antihistamine used to relieve symptoms such as sneezing and itchy eyes. Beclomethasone is available by prescription only, whereas fexofenadine can be purchased over-the-counter and comes in various oral forms, including tablets and liquid. Beclomethasone is typically used once daily, while fexofenadine can be taken once or twice a day, depending on the formulation. Common side effects of beclomethasone include nasal discomfort and nosebleeds, while fexofenadine may cause headaches and dry mouth. Additionally, beclomethasone can increase the risk of infections and slow the growth of children, especially if used for a long period of time.

Qnasl

(beclomethasone)

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Fexofenadine

(Allegra)

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Summary for Qnasl

Prescription only

Qnasl (beclomethasone) is a steroid nasal spray that works well for treating nasal symptoms caused by allergies. You spray it into your nose, typically 1-2 sprays once daily. To get the most out of the medication, you should used every day. Some of the more common side effects of Qnasl (beclomethasone) include nasal discomfort, nose bleeds, and headache.

Indications for Qnasl

Nasal symptoms caused by seasonal or year-round allergies

Pros and Cons for Qnasl

Pros

Can be used in children ages 4 years and older
Has fewer side effects compared to oral corticosteroids
Doesn't need to be primed before first use
Has a built-in counter to help keep track of remaining doses

Cons

Can raise your risk for infections
Can cause nasal discomfort and nose bleeds
Can slow growth in children, especially if used long-term
Available by prescription only, unlike some other intranasal corticosteroids

Common Side Effects for Qnasl

Age 12 years and older:

Nasal discomfort (5%)
Headache (2%)
Nose bleed (2%)

Age 4 to less than 12 years:

Headache (3%)
Fever (3%)
Cough, runny nose, and other symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection (3%)
Sore throat and stuffy nose (2%)

Warnings for Qnasl

Nose bleeds, discomfort, and injury
Slower wound healing
Risk of infection
Eye and vision problems
Altered stress hormone levels
Delayed growth in children

Summary for Allegra

Over-the-counter

Fexofenadine (Allegra) is an antihistamine. It's used to ease symptoms of allergy and hives in adults and children. Fexofenadine (Allegra) can be found over the counter as a tablet, fast-melting tablet, and liquid. This medication is taken once or twice per day, depending on the formulation. Fexofenadine (Allegra) starts to work in about 2 hours and its effects can last up to 24 hours. Fexofenadine (Allegra) doesn't make you as drowsy compared to some other antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Other possible side effects of fexofenadine (Allegra) include headache and dry mouth.

Indications for Allegra

Short-term relief of allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itchy nose or throat)
Treatment of hives

Pros and Cons for Allegra

Pros

First-choice option for relieving allergy symptoms
Some products can also be used to relieve itchiness from hives.
Available as 12-hour and 24-hour tablets, as well as a liquid and quick-dissolving tablets for those who have a hard time swallowing pills
All formulations available over the counter

Cons

Liquid form might not be the best choice for people on a low-salt diet because it contains sodium
Once-daily formulations not recommended for children younger than 12 years old
Might have a higher risk of side effects if you have liver or kidney problems
Can cause headache