Effective Flu Treatments in 2025: Self-Care and Prescription Options Starting at $20

Comprehensive Flu Treatments: Self-Care and Medications

Managing the flu primarily involves easing symptoms while your immune system fights the virus. Since the flu is viral, antibiotics are ineffective unless a secondary bacterial infection occurs, in which case your doctor may prescribe them. Typically, a combination of self-care practices and medications is recommended to manage symptoms effectively.

Self-Care Strategies for Flu Relief

Individuals at high risk for flu complications—such as adults over 65, pregnant or recently postpartum women, and those with weakened immune systems—should seek prompt medical attention.

• Adults aged 65 and older
• Pregnant women or those within two weeks postpartum
• People with compromised immune systems

For most people, rest and hydration are key. Even if appetite is low, maintaining regular meals helps sustain energy levels. Staying home from work or school until symptoms improve prevents spreading the virus.

To reduce fever, apply a cool, damp cloth to the forehead or take a cool bath. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can alleviate fever and aches.

Additional self-care tips include:

• Consuming hot soup to ease nasal congestion
• Gargling with warm salt water to soothe a sore throat
• Avoiding alcohol
• Quitting smoking if applicable

Over-the-Counter Medications to Ease Symptoms

While OTC drugs don't shorten flu duration, they help manage symptoms effectively.

Pain Relievers

Options include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen (Aleve), and aspirin (Bayer). Note: Aspirin is unsafe for children and teens due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition affecting the brain and liver.

Cough Suppressants

Medications like dextromethorphan (Robitussin) help control dry coughs by suppressing the cough reflex.

Decongestants

Drugs such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine (DayQuil) relieve nasal congestion but should be avoided by individuals with high blood pressure.

If experiencing itchy or watery eyes, antihistamines may help. First-generation antihistamines (e.g., brompheniramine, diphenhydramine) can cause drowsiness and aid sleep, while second-generation options (e.g., cetirizine, loratadine) are less sedating.

Combination Medications

Many OTC flu remedies combine multiple drug types to tackle various symptoms simultaneously. Visit your local pharmacy to explore options.

Prescription Antiviral Medications

Antiviral drugs reduce flu severity and prevent complications by inhibiting viral replication, helping your immune system respond more efficiently. They also shorten the contagious period and speed recovery.

Common antivirals include neuraminidase inhibitors such as zanamivir (Relenza), oseltamivir (Tamiflu), and peramivir (Rapivab). Additionally, baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza), approved in 2018, offers a novel mechanism for treating flu in patients aged 12 and older who have had symptoms for less than 48 hours.

For best results, start antivirals within 48 hours of symptom onset. They also serve as preventive measures, especially for high-risk individuals, with a 70-90% success rate in flu prevention.

During outbreaks, doctors may prescribe antivirals alongside the flu vaccine for enhanced protection, particularly for those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants under 6 months or individuals with vaccine allergies.

However, these medications are not substitutes for annual vaccination, and overuse can lead to antiviral resistance and reduced drug availability for those at greatest risk.

Zanamivir is approved for treatment in people aged 7 and older and prevention in those 5 and older. It is inhaled as a powder but should be avoided by individuals with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma.

Oseltamivir is FDA-approved for all ages for treatment and prevention from 3 months old, administered orally. Note that Tamiflu may cause side effects including confusion and self-injury, particularly in children and teens.

Common side effects of antivirals include lightheadedness, nausea, and vomiting. Always consult your healthcare provider about potential risks and benefits.

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Annual Flu Vaccination: Your Best Defense

Though not a treatment, the yearly flu vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection. The CDC recommends vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older, ideally in October or November to build immunity before peak flu season (November to March).

Consult your doctor to determine the best vaccination plan for you and your family.

Flu Treatment for Children: Expert Q&A

Q: What are the most effective flu treatments for children?

A: According to the CDC, annual vaccination is the most effective protection for children. Vaccinating pregnant women also provides newborns with some immunity. If children contract the flu, antiviral medications prescribed by a doctor can reduce symptoms. Supportive care includes good hygiene, avoiding sick contacts, hydration, and rest. For fever or pain, acetaminophen is safe from 3 months of age, and ibuprofen from 6 months onward.

— Dr. Alana Biggers, MD, MPH

All information provided is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.

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