Nasacort vs. Clarinex
See how Nasacort and Clarinex compare on approved uses, dosing, side effects, and cost.
Key Takeaways
Nasacort treats nasal allergy symptoms only, while Clarinex also relieves non-nasal symptoms like itchy eyes and hives.
Nasacort is available over the counter for about $13 to $24 a month, while Clarinex is prescription-only and typically costs $270 to $300 a month.
Nasacort works locally in the nose to reduce inflammation, while Clarinex works throughout the body to block histamine.
Nasacort vs. Clarinex Drug Summary
Nasacort
Nasacort is a nasal corticosteroid spray used for the nasal symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis. It is sprayed into each nostril once a day and has been sold over the counter since 2013.
Clarinex
Clarinex is a second-generation antihistamine that blocks the H1 histamine receptor throughout the body. It relieves nasal and non-nasal allergy symptoms and chronic hives, taken once daily as a tablet, dissolving tablet, or liquid.
Nasacort vs. Clarinex Side Effects
Nasacort
Clarinex
Nasacort vs. Clarinex Dosage
Nasacort
Clarinex
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 110 mcg once daily | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 220 mcg once daily | If needed |
| Dose changes | 1 increase | As tolerated |
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 1 mg once daily | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 5 mg once daily | If needed |
| Dose changes | 3 increases | As tolerated |
Nasacort
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 110 mcg once daily | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 220 mcg once daily | If needed |
| Dose changes | 1 increase | As tolerated |
Clarinex
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 1 mg once daily | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 5 mg once daily | If needed |
| Dose changes | 3 increases | As tolerated |
Nasacort vs. Clarinex Indications
Nasacort
Nasacort is FDA-approved for the nasal symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis in people age 2 and older. It works directly in the nasal passages to reduce inflammation that causes congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. It is not approved for asthma or for children under 2.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis (nasal symptoms)
Perennial allergic rhinitis (nasal symptoms)
Approved for ages 2 and up
Not approved for asthma treatment
Clarinex
Clarinex is FDA-approved to relieve both nasal and non-nasal symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis. It is also approved to relieve itching and hives from chronic idiopathic urticaria. Approval extends down to 6 months of age depending on the specific indication.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis (nasal and non-nasal)
Perennial allergic rhinitis (nasal and non-nasal)
Chronic idiopathic urticaria (itching, hives)
Approved for ages 6 months and up (by indication)
Nasacort vs. Clarinex Pros and Cons
Nasacort
Nasacort works directly in the nasal passages to reduce inflammation, making it a strong option for congestion and nasal symptoms specifically. It is sold over the counter at a low price, but it can take several days of regular use to reach full effect and does not treat eye or skin symptoms.
Pros
Available without a prescription
Roughly $13 to $24 per month without insurance
Specifically targets nasal congestion and inflammation
Simple two-dose maintenance schedule
Cons
Doesn't relieve itchy eyes, hives, or skin symptoms
Takes several days of regular use for full effect
Carries risk of nasal irritation or septal perforation with long-term use
Not approved for children under 2
Clarinex
Clarinex works systemically to block histamine, so it covers nasal, eye, and skin symptoms including chronic hives. It requires a prescription and costs significantly more out of pocket, but it is non-sedating at the recommended dose and starts working faster than a nasal steroid.
Pros
Treats non-nasal symptoms like itchy, watery eyes
Also approved for chronic hives (urticaria)
Non-sedating at the recommended dose
Available in tablet, dissolving tablet, and liquid forms
Cons
Prescription required
Roughly $270 to $300 per month without insurance
Doesn't directly reduce nasal inflammation the way a steroid spray does
Multiple formulations can add dosing confusion in children
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