health sectionhealth sectionAstelin and Afrin are two popular nasal sprays that help with nasal congestion, allergies and other symptoms that prevent someone from breathing properly. Astelin and Afrin may seem similar, but they are designed for different things and should not be used interchangeably.
Astelin® Nasal Spray acts as a metered-spray antihistamine medication. Azelastine hydrochloride makes up the active ingredient in Astelin. Astelin treats the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and children five and older. Additionally Astelin treats the symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis---post-nasal drip and nasal congestion in adults and children 12 years of age and older.
Astelin is the brand name for the drug azelastine. It is a nasal spray that is used to treat the symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis and allergic rhinitis--sneezing, runny nose and itching. Astelin works by blocking the effect of histamine on particular cells. The drug is available only with a doctor's prescription. It has been tested and deemed safe for children age 5 and up, as well as adults. No specific studies have been done to show whether Astelin works differently, or has different side effects, in geriatric patients.
