Im at a friends house and im very congested. I typically take Afrin as it works wonders witih breaking up congestion. However I didnt bring any and my friend has none either.
However he does have a type of nasal spray called Astelin. Its a prescription nasal spray but is there a major difference between astelin and afrin? Or can I just use the Astelin for tonight?
Thanks 
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Astelin will not clear your congestion like afrin will. Prescription nasal sprays are designed to work after continued use. Before you see any results, most of them you will have to use for 2 weeks.
Over the counter nasal sprays (Afrin) do clear your congestion almost instantly but you are more prone to rebound congestion and therefore that is why most over the counter nasal sprays become addictive. I have known multiple people that used the OTC nasal sprays and they became addicted (one of them was my mother).
If you have continuous problems with congestion I suggest that you talk to your doctor and get a prescription spray. I am lucky enough that my doctor always has plenty of samples. I hope this helps.