Nasonex 24HR vs. Flonase Allergy Relief: Similarities and Differences
Medically reviewed by Mary Choy, PharmD
Nasonex 24HR (mometasone) and Flonase Allergy Relief (fluticasone) are over-the-counter (OTC) nasal sprays that are injected into the nostrils. These medications are categorized as corticosteroids (also known as steroids).
Both Nasonex 24HR and Flonase Allergy Relief treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy nose, and sneezing.
Nasonex 24HR also treats chronic nasal cavity inflammation with nasal polyps. Conversely, Flonase Allergy Relief treats nonallergic nasal symptoms that occur year-round.
The primary difference between these medications is that Nasonex 24HR can treat nasal polyps, and Flonase Allergy Relief can treat nonallergic rhinitis.
This article will compare Nasonex 24HR and Flonase Allergy Relief, highlighting their uses, how they work, how to use them safely, and more.
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Understanding Allergies
Allergic rhinitis, sometimes called hay fever, develops as a response to specific allergens. Seasonal and year-round allergies are both types of allergic rhinitis.
Allergy symptoms may also be present in nonallergic rhinitis. Nonallergic rhinitis occurs when allergy symptoms are present, but no allergy can be identified.
Allergies: Seasonal vs. Year-Round
Outdoor allergens typically trigger seasonal allergies during certain times of the year. Year-round allergies are typically triggered by indoor allergens present throughout the year and can occur anytime.
The critical difference between seasonal and year-round allergies is the timing of symptoms and the type of allergen. Both types can cause similar symptoms.
Genetics, level of exposure, environmental factors, and geographic location can influence the severity and prevalence of allergies.
Seasonal allergies are caused by exposure to common outdoor triggers not found year-round, such as grass, trees, pollen, and mold.
Year-round or perennial allergies are usually triggered by indoor allergens such as pet dander and hair, mold, dust mites, and cockroaches.
Symptoms
Common symptoms associated with allergies include the following:
Runny/stuffy nose
Irritated, watery eyes
Itchy eyes, nose, mouth, or throat
Sneezing
Cough
These symptoms may also be present in nonallergic rhinitis but are unrelated to a specific allergen.
In some cases, exposure to an allergen can result in a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
You should be concerned and seek medical attention if your allergy symptoms progress rapidly or if you experience the following symptoms:
Treatment Options
Allergies are usually treated based on medical history and specific symptoms. Avoiding triggers is one of the best ways to help improve and manage symptoms.
However, if necessary, intranasal corticosteroids are a practical and effective option for treating allergies.
What Is Nasonex 24HR?
Nasonex 24HR contains the active ingredient mometasone, an intranasal corticosteroid for nasal use that comes as a nasal spray and is available OTC.
Nasonex 24HR is Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved for the following indications:
Prevention of nasal symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and adolescents 12 years and older
Treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the nasal cavity) with nasal polyps in adults 18 years and older
Mometasone in Other Products
Mometasone can be found in some inhalers for asthma, topical steroids for various skin conditions, and another nasal spray for allergic rhinitis.
Ryaltris is a brand-name medication that contains mometasone and the antihistamine olopatadine. It is FDA-approved to treat seasonal allergies in adults and adolescents 12 years and older.
Like Nasonex 24HR, it comes as a nasal spray but is only available by prescription.
How It Works
Nasonex 24HR helps alleviate allergy symptoms by reducing swelling in the nose.
This medication does not provide instant relief, and symptom improvement may occur within one to two days.
Most people achieve moderate relief 12 hours after the first dose; however, the full benefit of treatment may not be seen for up to two days, and in some cases, total relief may take several weeks.
What Is Flonase Allergy Relief?
Flonase Allergy Relief, containing the active ingredient fluticasone, is also an intranasal corticosteroid for nasal use only that comes in the form of a nasal spray and is available by prescription and OTC.
Flonase Allergy Relief is FDA-approved for the following uses:
Management of the nasal symptoms of year-round nonallergic rhinitis in adults and children 4 years and older.
Fluticasone in Other Products
Flonase Allergy Relief is a nasal spray, but other forms of fluticasone can be inhaled or used topically to treat other conditions.
Notably, inhaled fluticasone, under the brand-name product Flovent, can treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Conversely, topical fluticasone can treat certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis or eczema.
However, in treating allergies, Flonase nasal spray also comes in a sensimist formulation for adults and children and delivers the medication more gently.
The sensimist formulation is marketed as a no-drip, scent-free, and alcohol-free mist spray. It is available at a lower strength, contains a different formulation of fluticasone, and treats people of different ages than Flonase Allergy Relief does.
Flonase Sensimist replaced Veramyst, a brand name-only formulation of fluticasone that was available by prescription only but is no longer on the market.
How It Works
Flonase helps lessen allergy symptoms through its anti-inflammatory activity.
This medication will start to work within 12 hours of taking it. However, taking the medication to reach maximum effect may take several days.
Some people notice an improvement in symptoms within two to four hours after the first dose.
Dosing Guidelines
The following will outline standard dosing practices when using Nasonex 24HR and Flonase Allergy Relief.
Both medications contain 50 micrograms of the active ingredient per spray.
Nasonex 24HR
Some standard Nasonex 24HR dosing practices include:
Prevention of seasonal allergy symptoms (in people 12 years and older): two sprays in each nostril once daily
Treatment of chronic nasal inflammation with nasal polyps in adults: two sprays in each nostril twice daily
Flonase Allergy Relief
Some standard Flonase Allergy Relief dosing practices include:
Management of the nasal symptoms of year-round nonallergic rhinitis:
Two sprays per nostril once daily (adults)
One spray per nostril once daily (children and adolescents ages 4 years and older)
Guidance for Safe Use
Both nasal sprays should be used regularly, as recommended, to achieve the best results and symptom improvement. They are for nasal use only and should not be inserted anywhere other than your nose.
Increasing or doubling your dose is best if your healthcare provider recommends it. Young children should be assisted by an adult when receiving this medication.
Both medications should be used in the nose only. When using either medication, you should blow your nose before each use.
Tilt your head slightly forward and avoid spraying medications directly onto the septum (the area between the nostrils).
If you miss a dose, you should take it as soon as you remember, but stay within your recommended daily dose or double it.
Comparing Efficacy
Research shows that Nasonex 24HR and Flonase Allergy Relief are effective treatment options for allergy symptoms.
Nasonex 24HR is an effective treatment option for moderate to severe symptoms of seasonal allergies.
In contrast, Flonase Allergy Relief is an effective treatment option for nasal symptoms related to year-round allergies.
Both medications work similarly, and when taken at equal doses, Nasonex 24HR is as effective as Flonase Allergy Relief at improving allergy-related nasal symptoms and overall year-round allergy symptoms.
Alternative Treatment Options
One of the best ways to prevent allergies is to avoid allergens. Though avoiding all allergens may not be possible, knowing your body and recognizing your triggers can help.
Some standard alternative treatment options used include:
Exercise
Nasal irrigation
Medication supplements
Alternative treatment options may provide some relief but are not meant to be a replacement for therapies your healthcare provider has recommended.
Side Effects & Safety
Nasonex and Flonase are generally well-tolerated medications, but some potential side effects do exist.
If side effects occur, they are typically mild and don't last long.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects associated with using Nasonex 24HR and Flonase Allergy Relief include:
Viral infection
Cough
Severe Side Effects
Potentially more severe side effects associated with using Nasonex 24HR and Flonase Allergy Relief include:
Allergic reactions
Nose damage
Delayed wound healing
Worsening of infections
Growth reduction in children
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any concerning side effects while taking the medication.
Potential for Interaction
Drug interactions occur when one drug negatively affects how another works.
Speak with your healthcare provider to tell them what prescription and OTC medications you take before starting therapy.
Potential drug interactions with Nasonex and Flonase are similar, including certain medications in the following medication classes:
Medications for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), such as Norvir (ritonavir) and Reyataz (atazanavir)
Antifungal medications, such as Nizoral (ketoconazole) and Sporanox (itraconazole)
Some common antibiotics for stomach ulcers, such as Biaxin (clarithromycin)
Summary
Nasonex 24HR and Flonase Allergy Relief are OTC nasal sprays that are injected into the nostrils and are FDA-approved for treating seasonal and year-round allergies.
Though these brand-name products carry different active ingredients, they are both classified as intranasal corticosteroids.
More specifically, Nasonex 24HR treats seasonal allergies and nasal polyps. In comparison, Flonase Allergy Relief can treat allergic and nonallergic symptoms, and people as young as 4 years old can take it.
However, the main difference between these drugs is that Nasonex 24HR can treat nasal polyps, and Flonase Allergy Relief can treat nonallergic rhinitis.
If you're battling symptoms related to year-round or seasonal allergies, discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider to determine if a nasal spray is an appropriate option for treating your symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I store Nasonex 24HR vs. Flonase Allergy Relief?
Store both medications in a secured, room temperature (68–77 F) location away from high moisture levels or harsh lighting.
And like all drugs, be sure to keep Nasonex 24HR and Flonase Allergy Relief out of the reach of children and pets.
Should pregnant or breastfeeding people take either drug?
Little research has been conducted on the impact of Nasonex 24HR or Flonase Allergy Relief on pregnant or breastfeeding people.
Therefore, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult your healthcare provider before taking either of them.
Which U.S. cities are the worst for allergies?
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America ranked the following locations as the top five "allergy capitals" of the United States for 2023: Wichita, Kansas; Dallas; Scranton, Pennsylvania; Oklahoma City; and Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Read the original article on Verywell Health.
