Generic Flonase costs, uses, and differences explained

In this article:

• Is there a generic for Flonase?
• What are the differences between brand-name and generic Flonase?
• How much is generic Flonase?
• Is Flonase covered by insurance?
• Generic alternatives to Flonase

In this article

• Is there a generic for Flonase?
• What are the differences between brand-name and generic Flonase?
• How much is generic Flonase?
• Is Flonase covered by insurance?
• Generic alternatives to Flonase

Flonase is the brand name for fluticasone propionate, an over-the-counter nasal spray used to treat symptoms of nasal allergies, including congestion, a runny nose, itching, sneezing, and watery eyes. It is a glucocorticoid and works by blocking the actions of histamines, which are substances released during allergic reactions. Flonase can be used in children aged 4 and up, as well as in adults. It’s used once or twice daily in adults and children aged 12 and up, and should be used more sparingly in children under 12.

Is there a generic for Flonase?

Many people wonder if a Flonase generic is available. The answer is yes; generic Flonase is available and can be sold over-the-counter or by prescription. The generic name for Flonase is fluticasone propionate and is typically less expensive than branded Flonase. Generic prescription Flonase was initially approved for use in 1994, according to DailyMed. Generic over-the-counter Flonase was first approved by the FDA in 2006.

It should be noted that although a generic prescription for Flonase is available, branded Flonase is only available over-the-counter, and not by prescription.

What are the differences between brand-name and generic Flonase?

The FDA notes that generic versions of medications are required to work in the same way as their branded counterparts. The same is true for generic Flonase. “Generics are required to use the same active ingredients and dosing as the name brand,” explains Kara Wada, MD, a quadruple board-certified physician in pediatric and adult allergy/immunology, and lifestyle medicine at Immune Confident Institute.

Still, Dr. Wada notes, there may be some inactive ingredients that are different between branded Flonase and generic Flonase. “For most patients, they work the same, but some of the excipients (filler) ingredients vary, and some people are more sensitive to scent, pH, and these preservatives,” she describes. “Side effects can include nasal dryness, irritation, nosebleeds, and rarely septal perforation.”

Erika Gray, Pharm.D., founder and chief medical officer at MyToolBox Genomics, says that although her patients usually don’t complain, some do notice a difference between Flonase and generic Flonase. “Even though generic Flonase must meet the same FDA standards for quality, performance, strength, dosage form, and route of administration as the branded product, many patients will swear that the generic option does not work as well as the branded product,” Dr. Gray says.

For instance, according to Dr. Gray, some patients are more sensitive to the preservatives in certain Flonase products (like benzalkonium chloride) or other additives that may be present in one formulation over another. This can lead to symptoms like increased stinging, dryness, or nosebleeds.

“Others may be affected by the mist delivery,” Dr. Gray explains. “Some patients feel that the generic version does not deliver the medication as efficiently as the brand.”

How much is generic Flonase?

The cost of generic Flonase varies based on type. Generic Flonase comes in two forms: over-the-counter and prescription. Over-the-counter generic Flonase costs less than prescription Flonase. However, if you use a SingleCare discount card, you can save more on OTC or prescription Flonase.

 Prescription drug prices often change. These are the most accurate medication prices at the time of publishing in ZIP code 23666 as of 1/06/2026. The listed price without insurance references the price of brand-name drugs (unless otherwise specified). The listed SingleCare price references the price of generic drugs if available. 

Is Flonase covered by insurance?

Flonase is only covered by insurance if your doctor writes you a prescription for Flonase. Only generic Flonase (fluticasone propionate) is available by prescription, not branded Flonase.

Several different brands make prescription Flonase, including Xhance. “Health insurance plans, especially those covering prescription drugs, typically cover the generic version, fluticasone propionate, when obtained with a prescription,” Dr. Gray says.

Whether or not your insurance company covers Flonase depends on what type of insurance you have and whether prescription generic Flonase is the insurance company’s preferred medication to treat respiratory allergies.

Why might a person prefer prescription generic Flonase over over-the-counter? It usually has to do with the fact that health insurance may cover this version, but won’t be able to help you pay for over-the-counter Flonase.

“Sometimes, getting the generic fluticasone propionate by prescription (even though it’s available OTC) is necessary for a patient to get it covered by their health insurance plan, leading to a much lower copay than the OTC price,” Dr. Gray explains.

Generic alternatives to Flonase

There are some generic alternatives to Flonase on the market. According to Dr. Wade, the following are alternative generic nasal sprays to consider:

• Triamcinolone (generic for Nasacort)
• Budesonide (generic for Rhinocort)
• Mometasone (generic for Nasonex)

If you are looking for even more relief, you might consider generic azelastine/fluticasone spray. “Another option for more severe allergies or patients who need faster relief may benefit from the generic combination spray azelastine/fluticasone (Dymista), which pairs a corticosteroid with an antihistamine, offering dual action and often faster relief.

If you are considering switching from Flonase to an alternative nasal allergy spray, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider for medical advice before making the change. They know your medical history and understand what type of allergy medication might work best for you.