This will help you get better quickly and prevent you from spreading the virus to others.
However, the evidence of their effectiveness is mixed and controversial.
Over-the-Counter Medications for Symptoms
Several over-the-counter (OTC) medications may help to alleviate influenza symptoms.
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
Its especially important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any medication if youre pregnant or nursing.
Antiviral drugs dont cure the flu but can lessen its duration and severity.
Xofluza works in one dose, while Tamiflu and Relenza are taken for five days.
Rapivab is administered intravenously.
Side Effects of Antiviral Medications
Antiviral drugs typically dont cause serious side effects for most people.
Does Any Flu Treatment Work Best?
For most people, the flu goes away on its own within two weeks.
Mostfeverslast up to three or four days.
In terms of prescription treatments for the flu, antiviral drugs are currently the only FDA-approved option.
All four have been found to be safe and effective for most people.
Meanwhile, Xofluza had the highest chance of reducing the risk of influenza complications.
Is the Flu Vaccine Treatment?
In the United States, flu season typically lasts from October to April.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.What you should know about influenza (flu) antiviral drugs.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Treatment of flu.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Manage common cold.
U.S. Food & Drug Administration.Influenza (flu) antiviral drugs and related information.
National Institutes of Health.Cold, flu, or allergy?
Know the difference for best treatment.
2021;4(8):e2119151.
doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.19151
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Key facts about seasonal flu vaccine.
