Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory illness caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Medications are available to help manage these infections, aiming to reduce the severity of symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness.
Categories of Flu Medication
Flu medications generally fall into two main categories: prescription antiviral drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) symptom-relieving medications. Antiviral drugs directly target the influenza virus to inhibit its replication within the body, which can reduce the illness’s impact. In contrast, OTC medications do not fight the virus itself; instead, they focus on alleviating uncomfortable symptoms such as fever, aches, and congestion.
Antiviral Medications for Flu
Prescription antiviral medications combat the influenza virus by interfering with its life cycle, inhibiting specific enzymes or proteins the virus needs to replicate or spread. For instance, neuraminidase inhibitors, a common class of antivirals, block the neuraminidase enzyme, which the virus uses to release new viral particles from infected cells, preventing further infection.
Antiviral drugs are most effective when administered within 48 hours of symptom onset. Starting treatment within this window can significantly reduce symptom duration by about a day or two and may help prevent complications. Even if started later, these medications can still offer benefits, especially for individuals at higher risk of severe illness.
Common antiviral drugs approved by the FDA include oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), peramivir (Rapivab), and baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza). Oseltamivir is available as a pill or liquid, while zanamivir is an inhaled powder. Peramivir is administered intravenously, and baloxavir marboxil is a single-dose oral pill. Baloxavir marboxil works differently than neuraminidase inhibitors by inhibiting the cap-dependent endonuclease (CEN) reaction, involved in viral RNA transcription.
Antiviral medications are typically recommended for individuals at high risk of developing serious flu complications, such as adults over 65, pregnant individuals, young children, and those with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems. They are also considered for people with severe illness or those hospitalized due to the flu. Potential side effects include nausea and diarrhea.
Managing Flu Symptoms
Managing flu symptoms involves supportive care and over-the-counter (OTC) medications to provide comfort. These medications alleviate various symptoms.
Pain relievers and fever reducers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help lower fever and reduce muscle aches and headaches. It is important to follow dosing instructions carefully to avoid taking too much, especially with acetaminophen, which can be harmful to the liver if exceeded.
Other OTC options address specific symptoms. Decongestants, like pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, work by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages to reduce swelling and ease breathing. Cough suppressants, such as dextromethorphan, can help quiet a dry cough, while expectorants like guaifenesin can thin mucus, making it easier to clear from the chest if a cough is productive. Throat lozenges and sprays can offer temporary relief for a sore throat.
Beyond medications, general self-care strategies are beneficial for symptom management. Getting plenty of rest allows the body to conserve energy and recover. Staying well-hydrated by drinking fluids like water, broth, or herbal tea helps thin mucus and prevent dehydration. Using a humidifier can soothe irritated airways, and gargling with warm salt water may relieve a sore throat. If symptoms worsen or do not improve after several days, especially if a fever lasts longer than three days, seeking medical advice is advisable.