Flonase vs. Other Allergy Treatments

Allergies affect countless Americans each year. Inhaled nasal steroids (INS) such as Flonase provide nasal relief for allergies. Different INS treatments are available, but there is no scientific data that proves one INS performs better than another. Flonase is therefore compared to other INS treatments based upon comfort, value and ease of use.

Background

• Flonase, fluticasone propionate (clinical name), is an INS treatment for seasonal and year-round nasal allergies. The generic form of Flonase is sold under its clinical name.

Use

• Flonase is sprayed into each nostril to reduce the inflammation of nasal passages caused by irritants such as pollen. Dosage is prescribed by your doctor.

Comparison to Nasacort

• Flonase is cheaper when sold in generic form. Ease of use was also a factor: according to Sheree Welshimer, BellaOnline's Allergies and Colds Editor, Nasacort has a better spraying apparatus that catches virtually all of the medicine while Flonase's apparatus does not.

Compared to Nasonex

• A study conducted by Schering-Plough found that the odor, immediate taste and aftertaste of Nasonex were preferred over Flonase. The effectiveness of either drug was not tested.

Considerations

• Every person responds to medication differently. Consult your doctor to find out if Flonase will be beneficial to you.