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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Nasal corticosteroid sprays reduce swelling and mucus in the nasal passages to relieve sneezing, runny nose, and other allergy symptoms. Unlike oral steroids, which treat allergy symptoms throughout the body, nasal sprays only treat nasal symptoms. They work best when taken regularly throughout the allergy season. Nasacort Allergy 24 Hour (triamcinolone) was the first intranasal corticosteroid nasal spray made available without a prescription—meaning over the counter (OTC). Soon after, Flonase (fluticasone) also became available OTC. Deciding whether to use an OTC nasal corticosteroid spray or an oral OTC antihistamine like Zyrtec or Allegra can be confusing. Nasal corticosteroid sprays work locally to reduce nasal inflammation and mucus, effectively relieving symptoms of nasal allergies. Oral antihistamines work throughout the body to block the action of the specific chemical causing allergy symptoms. This article discusses the pros and cons of using OTC nasal corticosteroid sprays like Nasacort, Flonase, or Rhinocort (budesonide). It also compares oral antihistamines to nasal corticosteroid sprays. Grace Cary / Getty Images Nasal Sprays vs. Antihistamines Nasal corticosteroids are the most effective treatment for nasal allergy symptoms. They are safe and effective, including for children. Nasacort, Flonase, and Rhinocort are OTC nasal corticosteroids. How Quickly Do Nasal Corticosteroid Sprays Work? Nasal corticosteroids take time to completely relieve your symptoms—possibly two weeks or more. However, you'll likely start feeling better much earlier: For example, Nasacort may improve your symptoms from day one and provide full relief in a week. In fact, if you don't feel any relief after using OTC Nasacort for a week, or if your symptoms worsen, make sure to talk to a healthcare provider. Flonase and Rhinocort may improve your symptoms as soon as one to two days. Talk to a healthcare provider if you don't feel any relief after one week of daily Flonase use or after two weeks of daily Rhinocort use. To get the best effects, you may need to continue using the nasal corticosteroid sprays daily throughout the allergy season. A Closer Look at Antihistamines Oral antihistamines such as Zyrtec (cetirizine), Allegra (fexofenadine), and Claritin (loratadine) work by blocking the action of a chemical called histamine. Histamines get released by your immune system when it senses an allergen. Blocking this mechanism can treat many allergy symptoms, not just nasal. Oral antihistamines work quickly. Zyrtec and Allegra, for example, can start working after an hour. Claritin typically begins working within three hours. Their effects may last for 12-24 hours, depending on the product you choose. Some antihistamines only last four to six hours. Oral antihistamines are less effective for nasal allergy symptoms (especially congestion) than nasal corticosteroids. However, they may still work well for someone with mild nasal allergy symptoms. Note that you may need to avoid antihistamines if you have certain health conditions, including the following:DiabetesEpilepsyHeart diseaseHigh blood pressureGlaucomaEnlarged prostateProblems urinatingHyperthyroidism If you experience any of these, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to a healthcare provider before taking any OTC antihistamines. Which Antihistamine Should I Choose? Any oral antihistamine may
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