Which is stronger, Flonase OTC or prescription?
Over-the-counter (OTC) Flonase Allergy Relief is exactly the same strength, dose and medicine as prescription Flonase - fluticasone 0.05 mg / spray. The prescription branded Flonase product is now discontinued in the U.S., but OTC Flonase products, generics, and store brands are still available.
OTC Flonase Sensimist Allergy Relief (fluticasone furoate) is also the same strength and medicine as the prescription brand Veramyst (also discontinued).
Does it cost the same?
With OTC approvals, the amount of money you pay for your medicine may differ from a prescription product.
- Since Flonase is now available over-the-counter (OTC), insurance plans may not pay for the prescription brand name product, and your costs could be significantly higher than the OTC Flonase.
- However, if you have a health savings account (HSA), you can probably use funds from that to pay for OTC medicines. This changed in 2020 with the CARES Act.
Your insurance might pay for the prescription generic fluticasone propionate (Flonase), but you'll need to visit with a doctor and obtain a prescription for it. You might be able to pay even less for the generic prescription product than the OTC option, so ask your pharmacist about this.
Also, ask your pharmacist to do a cost comparison for you. Online coupons or a discount cards may be helpful for prescription products, and may be cheaper than your insurance copay.
This is not all the information you need to know about fluticasone nasal spray (Flonase) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.
Related questions
References
- Fluticasone propionate. Drugs@FDA: FDA-Approved Drugs. Accessed May 8, 2023 at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm
- Flonase. FAQs. Accessed May 8, 2023 at https://www.flonase.com/products/flonase-allergy-relief/faqs/
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Drug information
- Flonase Information for Consumers
- Flonase prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Flonase (detailed)
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