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Compare Rhinocort Allergy vs. Astepro

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

Key takeaways

Rhinocort Allergy (budesonide) and Astepro Allergy (azelastine) are both nasal sprays used to treat allergy symptoms, but they work differently. Rhinocort Allergy is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in your nose, while Astepro Allergy is an antihistamine that blocks histamine to relieve symptoms like sneezing and runny nose. Rhinocort Allergy is available over-the-counter and can be used in children as young as 6 years old, but it may take up to 2 weeks to feel the full benefit. Astepro Allergy, on the other hand, can start working within 15 to 30 minutes and is also available over-the-counter, but it can cause drowsiness and a bitter taste in your mouth. Rhinocort Allergy is used once daily, whereas Astepro Allergy can be used once or twice a day depending on your age. Both medications have their own side effects and risks, so it's important to choose the one that best fits your needs.

  • Budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy)
    Astepro allergy (azelastine)
  • Budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy)
    Astepro allergy (azelastine)

  • Summary of Rhinocort Allergy vs. Astepro

    Summary for Corticosteroid

    Budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy) is an over-the-counter (OTC) nasal spray 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 (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.

    Summary for Antihistamine

    Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is an antihistamine nasal spray that's used to treat nasal symptoms due to allergies, such as stuffy nose, sneezing, and runny nose. Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is available over-the-counter (OTC) for adults and children 6 years and older. The strength of Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is 0.15%. The dosage depends on your age, but it's usually sprayed into the nose once or twice a day. Side effects can include a bitter taste in the mouth, nasal discomfort, and sneezing. <br/> Note: Azelastine nasal spray is also available by prescription in 0.1% and 0.15% strengths.

  • Indications of Rhinocort Allergy vs. Astepro

    Indications for
    •Nasal allergy symptoms (e.g., runny nose, stuffy nose, itchy nose, sneezing)
    Indications for

    Short-term relief of nasal symptoms due to allergies:

    •Stuffy nose
    •Runny nose
    •Sneezing
    •Itchy nose

  • Pros and Cons of Rhinocort Allergy vs. Astepro

    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    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
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •Available over the counter; doesn't require a prescription
    •Sprayed directly in the nose
    •Can work within 15 to 30 minutes to relieve allergy symptoms
    Cons
    •Not approved for children younger than 6 years old
    •Can cause drowsiness
    •Might leave a bitter taste in your mouth

  • Common Side Effects of Rhinocort Allergy vs. Astepro

    Common Side Effects for
    •Bloody nose (8%)
    •Sore throat (4%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Bitter taste (up to 6%)
    •Nasal discomfort (up to 4%)
    •Nosebleed (up to 2%)
    •Sneezing (up to 2%)

  • Warnings of Rhinocort Allergy vs. Astepro

    Common Side Effects for
    •Nose bleeds, discomfort, and injury
    •Risk of infection
    •Altered stress hormone levels
    •Delayed growth in children
    •Allergic reactions
    •Eye and vision problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •Possible sleepiness and difficulty concentrating

  • Prices with our coupons for Rhinocort Allergy vs. Astepro

    Learn more about Budesonide
    Learn more about Astepro allergy

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