From the Guidelines
For a runny nose, the best nasal spray option is typically an intranasal corticosteroid like fluticasone propionate (Flonase), mometasone furoate (Nasonex), or triamcinolone acetonide (Nasacort). These medications work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, which helps decrease mucus production, and are particularly effective for allergic rhinitis 1, 2, 3, 4.
Key Points to Consider
- For adults, the usual starting dose is 1-2 sprays in each nostril once daily, though you should follow the specific product instructions.
- These sprays are most effective when used consistently for several days, as they may take 12-24 hours to begin working and reach full effectiveness after a few days of regular use.
- Before using, gently blow your nose to clear the passages, then shake the bottle well.
- Tilt your head slightly forward, insert the tip into one nostril while blocking the other, and spray while breathing in gently through your nose.
- Avoid pointing the spray toward the center of your nose (the septum).
Additional Options
- For immediate but temporary relief, saline nasal sprays can help flush irritants and thin mucus without medication.
- Intranasal antihistamines, such as azelastine (Astelin) or olopatadine (Patanase), may also be effective for some patients, particularly those with seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis 3.
Important Considerations
- It is essential to follow the specific product instructions and consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
- Patients should be aware of potential side effects, such as nasal irritation, bleeding, or somnolence, and report any concerns to their healthcare provider.
- Regular use of intranasal corticosteroids can help improve quality of life and reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis, as recommended by clinical practice guidelines 4.
From the FDA Drug Label
Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray, USP relieves allergy symptoms caused by pollen, mold, dust and pets. Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray, USP not only relieves sneezing, itchy nose, runny nose and itchy, watery eyes, but also relieves nasal congestion. The best nasal spray for a runny nose is Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray, USP because it relieves allergy symptoms, including a runny nose, and also relieves nasal congestion 5 5.
- It works directly in the nose to help block allergic reactions.
- It is an effective allergy medicine that can be bought without a prescription.
- It can be used for up to six months if you are age 12 or older or up to two months a year if you are age 4 to 11 before checking with a doctor.
From the Research
Nasal Sprays for Runny Nose
- There are several nasal sprays available to treat a runny nose, including oxymetazoline and fluticasone furoate.
- Oxymetazoline is a topical nasal decongestant that provides fast symptom relief, with studies showing it can provide relief for up to 12 hours 6.
- Fluticasone furoate is a nasal steroid that can help reduce inflammation and congestion in the nose, with studies showing it can be effective in treating allergic rhinitis 7, 8, 9.
Combination Nasal Sprays
- Some studies have investigated the use of combination nasal sprays, such as fluticasone furoate and oxymetazoline, for the treatment of allergic rhinitis with nasal congestion.
- These combination sprays have been shown to be effective in reducing nasal symptoms and improving quality of life for patients with allergic rhinitis 7, 8.
- The use of fluticasone furoate in combination with oxymetazoline has also been shown to reverse oxymetazoline-induced tachyphylaxis and rebound congestion 10.
Safety and Efficacy
- The safety and efficacy of nasal sprays for the treatment of a runny nose have been evaluated in several studies.
- Oxymetazoline has been shown to be safe and effective for up to 12 hours, with minimal adverse events reported 6.
- Fluticasone furoate has also been shown to be safe and effective, with minimal adverse events reported 7, 8, 9.
- The combination of fluticasone furoate and oxymetazoline has been shown to be safe and effective, with no serious adverse events reported 7, 8.