- NasalCrom is a mast cell stabilizer and is ideal for stopping allergic reactions before they start.
- Flonase is a corticosteroid that provides long-term relief by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages.
- An alternative like Allermi combines multiple active ingredients for a more personalized approach to allergy management.
When it comes to managing allergy symptoms, Flonase and NasalCrom and two popular options. Although both aim to relieve uncomfortable symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and runny nose, they belong to different classes of medications and work in distinct ways.
In this article, you’ll learn how Flonase and NasalCrom compare in terms of effectiveness, usage, and potential side effects. If you’re looking for long-term relief or preventive care, we've also got a recommendation for managing your allergy symptoms effectively.
What is NasalCrom?
NasalCrom is a brand-name nasal spray used to prevent and alleviate the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including sneezing, nasal congestion, itching, and a runny nose. It contains the active ingredient cromolyn sodium, which works as a mast cell stabilizer.
Mast cells are a type of white blood cell that releases histamine and other inflammatory substances when you are exposed to allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander [*]. Stabilizing the mast cells prevents the release of histamine in the first place, which would make NasalCrom particularly effective as a preventive measure rather than a treatment [*].
What is Flonase?
Flonase is a brand-name nasal spray available by prescription or over-the-counter that treats allergic rhinitis symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. The active ingredient, fluticasone propionate, is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the nasal passages.
It works by narrowing blood vessels (vasoconstriction) and reducing the activity of certain immune cells that trigger inflammation, such as eosinophils and mast cells. This leads to fewer chemicals being released that cause allergy symptoms like swelling and mucus production [*].
Flonase is designed for long-term use, not immediate relief.
NasalCrom vs. Flonase
Below is a table summarizing the differences between these two allergy medications:
| NasalCrom | Flonase | |
| Drug Class | Mast Cell Stabilizers | Corticosteroid |
| Generic Name | Cromolyn Sodium | Fluticasone Propionate |
| Indications | Seasonal or chronic symptoms of allergic rhinitis such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching. | Nasal symptoms from allergies such as nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, nasal itching, and runny nose |
| Side Effects | Nose stinging or sneezing right after use, nosebleeds, sores in the nose, wheezing, chest tightness, and dizziness | Headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, local irritation, increased intraocular pressure, nosebleed, nasopharyngitis, acute sinusitis, and sore throat |
| Duration/Course | Several days to months | Several days to months |
| Onset | 1-2 weeks | Week or longer, however some individuals experience relief within a few days of consistent use |
| Dosage | 1 spray in each nostril, usually every 4 to 6 hours (3 to 4 times a day) | 1-2 sprays each nostril daily |
| Drug Interaction | Other drugs may interact with cromolyn sodium, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. | Desmopressin (due to the risk of water retention and low sodium), and Esketamine |
| Warnings/Precautions | Ask your healthcare provider if you have other medical conditions, especially if you have wheezing or breathing problems, drug allergies, fever, yellow or green nasal mucus and nasal polyps | Warnings or precautions include recent nasal or sinus surgery as this might interfere with healing, children under 4 years of age due to potential effects on growth, and pregnant or breastfeeding women |
What is the Best Alternative to NasalCrom and Flonase?
You might find yourself seeking an option that offers both comprehensive relief and adaptability for your unique needs.
While NasalCrom and Flonase each provide targeted allergy symptom management, Allermi nasal spray combines multiple FDA-approved, clinically proven active ingredients into one formulation. This approach simplifies treatment and provides both fast and long-term relief in one bottle.
Moreover, Allermi reduces the potential for side effects that are common with other medications.
Related: What's the Best Nasal Spray for Congestion?
The Bottom Line
Both NasalCrom and Flonase are effective options for managing allergy symptoms, though they work in different ways and serve slightly different purposes. NasalCrom is most effective as a preventive measure, while Flonase offers long-term relief.
However, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive and customizable solution, Allermi nasal spray could be an excellent alternative.
References:
- Abbas, M., Moussa, M., & Akel, H. (2023c, July 17). Type I Hypersensitivity Reaction. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560561/
- Kelmenson, A. T., Rao, N. K., & Raizman, M. B. (2013). Treatment of Allergic Eye Disease. In Elsevier eBooks (pp. 117–124). https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-1-4557-2876-3.00017-1
- Remien, K., Patel, P., & Bowman, A. (2024, May 2). Fluticasone. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542161/
