Steroid nasal sprays (2024)

FAQs

What is the most effective steroid nasal spray? ›

Experts say that over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory nasal sprays—such as FLONASE nasal sprays or Nasacort® 24 Hour—are the most effective form of nasal allergy symptom relief.

Side effects of steroid nasal sprays

dryness and crustiness in the nose. a dry, irritated throat. an unpleasant taste in the mouth. itchiness, redness and swelling in the nose.

A nasal corticosteroid spray reduces swelling and mucus in the nasal passageway. The sprays work well for treating: Allergic rhinitis symptoms, such as congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itching, or swelling of the nasal passageway. Nasal polyps, which are noncancerous (benign) growths in the lining of the nasal passage.

For allergies or other nasal conditions: For nasal aerosol dosage form: Adults and children 12 years of age and older—Two sprays in each nostril two or three times a day for up to two weeks. Children 6 to 12 years of age—One to two sprays in each nostril two times a day for up to two weeks.

Triamcinolone acetonide, budesonide, fluticasone propionate, and mometasone tend not to cause any significant side effects, presumably because they have lower systemic bioavailability (particularly fluticasone and mometasone) and are used in low dosages.

Official answer. Nasacort and Flonase are equally effective, safe, and well tolerated for the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Therefore the choice of either Nasacort or Flonase comes down to personal preference, availability or price.

What nasal steroid sprays are available without a presription? Over-the-counter steroid nasal sprays include Flonase (fluticasone), Nasacort (triamcinolone), and Rhinocort (budesonide).

The bottom line

OTC steroid and antihistamine nasal sprays work best for treating allergy symptoms. Common examples include Flonase, Nasacort, and Astepro. They're safe for both adults and children to use every day. Just be sure to follow the recommended dosage.

Stopping treatment

If you're taking a prescription spray, don't stop using it unless advised to by your doctor. You may need to reduce your dose gradually. This can help avoid unpleasant side effects (withdrawal symptoms), such as severe tiredness, joint pain, vomiting and dizziness.

Nasal side effects — such as nosebleeds, irritation, and burning — can happen, too. Most side effects are generally mild and can be managed at home. Serious Flonase side effects include vision changes, asthma symptoms, and thrush. Discuss these risks with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before using Flonase.

What nasal spray can be used long term? ›

Nasal steroids sprays (Flonase®, Nasocort®, Nasonex®, etc. ) are safe to use on a daily basis and are now largely over-the-counter. These sprays are non-addictive and typically do not cause any long term changes to the nasal passages.

Nasal steroid sprays are used to treat chronic sinusitis and allergies that affect your breathing, like hay fever. They can also be used to treat snoring and nasal polyps, noncancerous growths in the nasal passages.

Steroids can be helpful in relieving inflammation associated with sinusitis and may be prescribed when symptoms are severe or in the post-operative period. Most commonly, you will be prescribed oral prednisone to take twice a day for 5 to 7 days.

Official answer. The difference is Flonase is available over-the-counter (OTC) and Nasonex is prescription only. There is no difference in their effect or side effects. Flonase and Nasonex are both corticosteroid nasal sprays that are effective at treating hay fever, perennial allergic rhinitis and allergies.

Nasonex and Nasacort are both nasal sprays for allergies that are available over the counter. However, they have some differences. Active ingredient: Nasonex has mometasone furoate, while Nasacort has triamcinolone acetonide. Timing: Nasonex may take a few days to work, while Nasacort may provide quicker relief.

Both Fluticasone propionate and budesonide showed statistically significant decrease in eosinophil count but fluticasone showed faster onset of action and greater immunologic improvement compared to budesonide.