Medications
Some antiviral medicines reduce the
severity and shorten the duration of
(flu) symptoms by 1 to 1½ days if given
within 48 hours of the first symptoms.2 These
medicines are not intended to substitute for getting a flu immunization each
year. Rather, antiviral medicines are important for controlling outbreaks and
preventing the spread of infection, especially in people at
high risk for developing flu complications.
The antiviral medicines
zanamivir and oseltamivir are used to prevent and treat influenza A and B
infections. They can reduce the severity and shorten the duration of flu
symptoms.7 Amantadine and rimantadine have been used
to help prevent and treat the flu caused by influenza A (but not influenza B)
infection. But for the past few years the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) has advised doctors not to use amantadine or rimantadine to
treat or prevent the flu.6 These medicines have not
worked against most types of the flu virus. It is important to talk with your
doctor about the medicine that is best for you.
For more
information, see:
Flu: Should I Take Antiviral Medicine?
Medication Choices
Two types of antiviral medicines can treat influenza
infections:
- (used to prevent or treat
influenza A infections)
- (used to treat
and prevent influenza A and B infections)
What To Think About
The effectiveness of antiviral
medicines can vary from year to year. Some years a medicine may not work
against the types of influenza virus causing symptoms. Your doctor can help you
decide whether antiviral medicines are likely to help you.
Most
people do not need antiviral medicines. They recover from influenza without
developing
complications.
But given how sick most
people are when they have the flu, some people may choose to take medicine even
if they are at low risk for complications.
You cannot prevent the
flu or make yourself feel better faster by taking:
- Antibiotics. For more information, see the
topic
Using Antibiotics Wisely.
- Large doses of
vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C or zinc.
- Herbal remedies,
such as echinacea.