Doctor Questions Infectious Disease Specialists

Can medications fix flu?

I have flu. Can medications fix flu?

4 Answers

Over the counter medications can help with the symptoms of flu, but they will not get rid of the virus. There is an anti-viral called Tamiflu that can help to decrease the number of days of illness by 1-2 days.
Medications cans make the flu more tolerable. But it goes away in time
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Medications can not "fix" the flu but can help with symptom relief. influenza A and B (seasonal flu) tx, uncomplicated is a viral infection. The are medications that can be given for symptom relief but it is usually self-limiting and has to just run its course.
Flu is considered a virus. The only FDA approved medication to help with flu is called Oseltamivir (Tamiflu). The way that Tamiflu works is that it helps stop the virus from self replicating. This in turn can help shorten the length of time the flu stays in your body. Ideally, you would need to initiate this treatment within 48 hours of symptoms starting. It is recommended that you confirm that you have the flu by taking a test ordered by your doctor prior to initiating treatment. Most of the time, treatment for the flu is treating your symptoms with medication (such as tylenol for fevers, over the counter medications for cough/sore throat).