Allergy Medications: Comparing Costs and Ways to Save
Allergy medications include antihistamines, nasal sprays, and related treatments. Many are inexpensive generics, and several are also sold over the counter, which means the cash price of a prescription version and an OTC version can differ for what is effectively the same active ingredient.
The savings approach is to compare the prescription cash price, the discount-card price, and the OTC option where one exists. Each medication below links to a page with current pricing; your pharmacist can help you weigh prescription versus OTC on cost.
Allergy medications (12)
Each medication links to its own page with live cash and discount prices. Prices vary by pharmacy, location, quantity, and eligibility.
- NasonexSave 91%
Mometasone Nasal · 50 mcg
from $18.40
- AllegraSave 68%
Fexofenadine · 180 mg
from $7.10
- FlonaseSave 63%
Fluticasone Nasal · 50 mcg
from $8.40
- ClaritinSave 67%
Loratadine · 10 mg
from $6.50
- ZyrtecSave 67%
Cetirizine · 10 mg
from $6.20
- BenadrylSave 72%
Diphenhydramine · 25 mg
from $3.40
- Chlor-Trimeton
Chlorpheniramine · 4 mg
Live prices on detail page
- Clarinex
Desloratadine · 5 mg
Live prices on detail page
- Nasacort
Triamcinolone Nasal · 55 mcg/actuation
Live prices on detail page
- Olopatadine
Olopatadine · 0.1%
Live prices on detail page
- Rhinocort
Budesonide Nasal · 32 mcg/actuation
Live prices on detail page
- Tavist
Clemastine · 1.34 mg
Live prices on detail page
Frequently asked questions
Is the over-the-counter allergy version cheaper than the prescription?
Often the OTC version of a common allergy medication is inexpensive, but not always cheaper than a discounted prescription — it depends on strength, quantity, and the pharmacy. Compare both, and ask your pharmacist which option fits your situation.
Why do prices for the same medication vary so much between pharmacies?
Cash prices are set by each pharmacy, not by a single national list, so the same drug and quantity can cost very different amounts across the street from each other. Discount-card prices, manufacturer arrangements, and a pharmacy's own contracts all move the final number. Comparing a few pharmacies before you fill is the simplest way to avoid overpaying.
Could a generic version lower my cost?
When an FDA-approved generic exists, it usually costs far less than the brand while containing the same active ingredient. Whether a generic is appropriate for you is a clinical decision — ask your doctor or pharmacist. This page is about cost comparison only, not which medication you should take.
Related savings guides
- The Best Ways to Find Cheap Medicine, Ranked by Effort
A practical, ranked breakdown of ways to find cheaper medication, from a two-minute price check to longer-term assistance program applications.
- Generic vs Brand-Name Medications: Cost Differences Explained
How generic and brand-name medications differ in cost and FDA approval, with data on typical savings and what to ask your pharmacist.
- How to Compare Prescription Prices Near You
A step-by-step guide to comparing prescription drug prices at pharmacies near you, including what info to gather and questions to ask.
This page is for cost and savings education only. It is not medical advice and makes no claims about which medication is right for you or how well any drug works. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your specific medications and coverage. Prices vary by pharmacy, location, quantity, and eligibility.
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