Allegra vs. Flonase
See how Allegra and Flonase compare on approved uses, dosing, side effects, and cost.
Key Takeaways
Allegra is an oral antihistamine for allergy symptoms and chronic hives, while Flonase is a nasal spray that also treats nasal congestion and inflammation.
Flonase works directly in the nasal passages and covers nonallergic rhinitis, a use Allegra does not have.
Flonase's main side effects are local, like nosebleeds and nasal irritation, while Allegra's are systemic, like headache and dizziness.
Allegra vs. Flonase Drug Summary
Allegra
Allegra (fexofenadine) is a second-generation oral antihistamine used to relieve seasonal allergy symptoms and chronic hives. It comes as a tablet, an orally disintegrating tablet, or a liquid, and is taken once or twice daily depending on age and dose.
Flonase
Flonase (fluticasone propionate) is a corticosteroid nasal spray used to treat seasonal and year-round allergic and nonallergic rhinitis. It is sprayed into each nostril daily, working directly on nasal tissue to reduce inflammation and congestion.
Allegra vs. Flonase Side Effects
Allegra
Flonase
Allegra vs. Flonase Dosage
Allegra
Flonase
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 30 mg twice daily | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 60 mg once daily | If needed |
| Dose changes | 3 increases | As tolerated |
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 200 mcg once daily | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 100 mcg once daily | If needed |
| Dose changes | 1 increase | As tolerated |
Allegra
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 30 mg twice daily | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 60 mg once daily | If needed |
| Dose changes | 3 increases | As tolerated |
Flonase
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 200 mcg once daily | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 100 mcg once daily | If needed |
| Dose changes | 1 increase | As tolerated |
Allegra vs. Flonase Indications
Allegra
Allegra treats seasonal allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes. It's also approved for chronic idiopathic urticaria, a form of hives lasting six weeks or longer. Its oral forms suit people who prefer not to use a nasal spray.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis (sneezing, itchy, watery eyes)
Chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives)
Available as tablet, ODT, or oral liquid
Approved for ages 6 and older
Flonase
Flonase treats seasonal and year-round allergic rhinitis by reducing inflammation directly in the nasal passages. It's also approved for nonallergic rhinitis, a use oral antihistamines don't cover. It's approved for both adults and children as young as 4.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis in ages 4 and older
Perennial (year-round) allergic rhinitis
Nonallergic (perennial) rhinitis
Available as prescription or OTC nasal spray
Allegra vs. Flonase Pros and Cons
Allegra
Allegra is a widely available oral antihistamine with a long safety record and minimal drowsiness. It's approved for both seasonal allergies and chronic hives, giving it broader systemic use than nasal-only treatments. It's also available over the counter at low cost.
Pros
Available as tablet, ODT, or liquid form
Non-sedating with minimal drowsiness risk
Also treats chronic hives, not just allergies
Minimal liver metabolism, fewer drug interactions
Cons
Doesn't reduce nasal inflammation directly
Less effective for severe nasal congestion
Requires twice-daily dosing at lower strengths
No approved use for nonallergic rhinitis
Flonase
Flonase is a corticosteroid nasal spray that treats allergy symptoms right where they start, in the nasal passages. It's approved for both allergic and nonallergic rhinitis, covering a broader range of nasal conditions than oral antihistamines. It's sold both by prescription and over the counter, though it typically costs more per month.
Pros
Treats inflammation directly in nasal tissue
Also approved for nonallergic rhinitis
Once-daily dosing for maintenance
Available both OTC and by prescription
Cons
Can cause nosebleeds or nasal irritation
Risk of Candida infection in nose or throat
Possible growth effects with long-term pediatric use
Roughly $20 to $95 per month, costs more than Allegra
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