Comparing OTC Nasal Sprays for Allergy Relief

In the past, nasal steroid sprays for upper respiratory allergies were only available with a prescription. Now, there are multiple OTC options.

Here is a comparison of 2 such nasal sprays:

Nasacort Allergy 24HR

Flonase Allergy Relief

FDA OTC approval date

October 11, 2013

July 23, 2014

Approved OTC use

Temporarily relieves symptoms of hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies, including nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy nose.

Temporarily relieves symptoms of hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies, such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose, and itchy, watery eyes.

Approved for patients aged

2 years or older

4 years or older

Dosing

Once daily

Once daily

Active ingredient

triamcinolone acetonide 55 mcg per spray

fluticasone propionate 50 mcg per spray

Inactive ingredients

benzalkonium chloride, carboxymethylcellulose sodium, dextrose, edetate disodium, hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide (for pH adjustment), microcrystalline cellulose, polysorbate 80, purified water

benzalkonium chloride, dextrose, microcrystalline cellulose, phenylethylalcohol, polysorbate 80, purified water, sodium carboxymethylcellulose

How it's supplied

60- or 120-spray bottles

60- or 120-spray bottles

Scent

Scent-free

Slight floral scent