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Compare Astepro vs. Afrin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Astepro Allergy (azelastine) and Afrin (oxymetazoline) are both nasal sprays used to relieve nasal symptoms, but they belong to different medication classes. Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is an antihistamine that treats allergy symptoms like a stuffy nose, sneezing, and runny nose by blocking histamine. Afrin (oxymetazoline), on the other hand, is an alpha-1 receptor agonist that works by tightening blood vessels in the nose to relieve congestion. Astepro Allergy (azelastine) can be used daily and is available over-the-counter for adults and children 6 years and older, while Afrin (oxymetazoline) should not be used for more than 3 days in a row to avoid rebound congestion. Astepro Allergy (azelastine) may cause drowsiness and a bitter taste, whereas Afrin (oxymetazoline) can cause burning or stinging in the nose. Afrin (oxymetazoline) is not recommended for people with high blood pressure, while Astepro Allergy (azelastine) does not have this restriction. Both medications are available over-the-counter, but they have different side effects and usage guidelines.

  • Astepro allergy (azelastine)
    Oxymetazoline (Afrin)
  • Astepro allergy (azelastine)
    Oxymetazoline (Afrin)

  • Summary of Astepro vs. Afrin

    Summary for Antihistamine

    Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is an antihistamine nasal spray that's used to treat nasal symptoms due to allergies, such as stuffy nose, sneezing, and runny nose. Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is available over-the-counter (OTC) for adults and children 6 years and older. The strength of Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is 0.15%. The dosage depends on your age, but it's usually sprayed into the nose once or twice a day. Side effects can include a bitter taste in the mouth, nasal discomfort, and sneezing. <br/> Note: Azelastine nasal spray is also available by prescription in 0.1% and 0.15% strengths.

    Summary for Alpha adrenergic receptor agonist

    Oxymetazoline (Afrin) is a nasal decongestant spray. More specifically, it's an alpha-1 receptor agonist. Oxymetazoline (Afrin) is sprayed into the nostrils up to twice daily to help relieve stuffy noses. But you should avoid using it for longer than 3 days in a row because doing so can raise the risk for rebound congestion. There are oxymetazoline products for children and adults that differ in dosage, so read the label on your specific product to make sure it's appropriate for you. Some side effects of this medication might include mild burning or stinging in the nose.

  • Indications of Astepro vs. Afrin

    Indications for

    Short-term relief of nasal symptoms due to allergies:

    •Stuffy nose
    •Runny nose
    •Sneezing
    •Itchy nose
    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of nasal and sinus congestion and pressure

  • Pros and Cons of Astepro vs. Afrin

    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •Available over the counter; doesn't require a prescription
    •Sprayed directly in the nose
    •Can work within 15 to 30 minutes to relieve allergy symptoms
    Cons
    •Not approved for children younger than 6 years old
    •Can cause drowsiness
    •Might leave a bitter taste in your mouth
    Pros and Const for Alpha adrenergic receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Starts working within minutes and lasts for up to 12 hours
    •Typically fewer side effects than oral decongestants
    •Children's product can be used by those as young as 2 years old (check product labeling)
    •Available over the counter and as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Some nasal spray might drip out of nose, which can be messy
    •Can't use longer than 3 days due to rebound congestion
    •Might not be a good choice for people with high blood pressure
    •Not recommended during pregnancy

  • Common Side Effects of Astepro vs. Afrin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Bitter taste (up to 6%)
    •Nasal discomfort (up to 4%)
    •Nosebleed (up to 2%)
    •Sneezing (up to 2%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Burning in the nose
    •Stinging in the nose
    •Rebound nasal congestion (if using longer than 3 days)

  • Warnings of Astepro vs. Afrin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Possible sleepiness and difficulty concentrating
    Common Side Effects for
    •Rebound congestion
    •Might not be safe for people with certain medical conditions
    •For use in the nose only

  • Prices with our coupons for Astepro vs. Afrin

    Learn more about Astepro allergy
    Learn more about Oxymetazoline

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