What Are the Treatments for Flu B?

There are three types of influenza virus, A, B and C. While A and B are known to cause seasonal epidemics or outbreaks of the flu, C can produce mild respiratory illnesses, and have yet to spread epidemically. Most seasonal flu vaccines cover flu B, and they are your best line of defense against catching the virus. However, if you have contracted flu B, there are treatments that can help.

Antivirals

• Zanamivir, which drug manufacturers produce under the brand name Relenza, and oseltamivir, sold under the brand name Tamiflu, are both specific types of antiviral agents known as neuraminidase inhibitors. According to American Family Physician, antiviral agents are effective against acute, uncomplicated cases of flu B---and A---during the first 48 hours in which an individual starts displaying symptoms. Antivirals can help reduce the severity of flu symptoms, such as fever, nausea, mucus buildup and body pains. They also can help shorten the duration of the illness. While zanamivir comes in vapor-form, which you inhale with a specialized device, oseltamivir comes in pill and liquid forms. Possible side effects from the former include cough, headache, throat irritation and spasms and difficult breathing in individuals with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Side effects from oseltamivir include vomiting and nausea. In comparison to zanamivir, oseltamivir is a more viable option for youngsters, as the FDA has approved it for use in children older than 1. Patients must be at least 7 to start a zanamivir regimen.

Over-the-Counter Drugs

• There are several steps you can take for treating the flu. If your symptoms fail to recede, make sure to seek medical attention. According to the National Library of Medicine, taking over-the-counter medicines, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, cough suppressants and decongestants, are good options for reducing flu B symptoms. However, they will not cure you, they will just help ease the symptoms. Avoid aspirin and antibiotics (unless you have another condition), as these will not help, and could potentially make symptoms worse.

Home Remedies

• There also are several home remedies that can help reduce flu B symptoms. These include resting, drinking lots of fluids, using saline nose drops, breathing in steam and using a humidifier.