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What Medication Should Be Used for Type A Influenza?

Influenza is an upper respiratory tract infection caused by a virus. Symptoms include fevers around 102 degrees Fahrenheit, chills, muscle aches, coughing and sometimes a runny nose. There are multiple strains of influenza, though Type A and Type B are the most common. Influenza is extremely contagious and often results in an epidemic each flu season. In addition to rest and hydration, some medications can manage side effects and shorten the duration of Influenza A.

  1. Over the Counter

    • Analgesics are helpful to lower fevers and manage body aches. Cough expectorants can make a cough more productive. Avoid cough suppressants, because they will prolong the illness and can cause secondary infections by preventing you from clearing phlegm from the lungs.

    Antivirals

    • There are four types of antivirals available to shorten the duration of influenza by interrupting the supply of an enzyme that flu viruses need in order to reproduce. Amantadine and Rimantadine have been around for a long time but are only effective against Type A Influenza. Zanamivir and Oseltamivir are newer antivirals, available as pills or inhalants. Flu has to be diagnosed within 48 hours to start antivirals, or they will have no effect. Side effects can include nausea, hallucinations and nightmares. Children should never use antivirals without constant supervision due to the risk of self-injury from hallucinations or nightmares.

    Antibiotics

    • Because influenza is caused by viruses, antibiotics have no effect on the flu. However, they are useful for secondary bacterial infections that often accompany influenza infection, such as bronchitis or pneumonia. The type of antibiotic administered depends on the variety and severity of the bacterial infection.

    Herbal Remedies

    • Herbal remedies can't claim to cure the flu, but they are useful for supportive care and symptom management. Anise tea and cayenne both stimulate mucus secretion. Catnip tea can reduce fever and has a relaxing effect. Mullein acts as an expectorant. Tilden flower is beneficial for a headache or a sore throat, as is ginger. Garlic has antibacterial properties that can stave off the development of secondary infections. Echinacea and elderberry both support the immune system to shorten the duration of the flu; both are also excellent choices for preventing all types of illnesses.

    Immunization

    • There are yearly immunizations available to protect against Influenza A and other strains. Flu shots are usually recommended for the most vulnerable of the population, like children, the elderly and anyone with a poor immune system. Immunizations can be hit or miss, because the vaccine is developed from the previous year's most common strain. Viruses mutate easily, so a vaccine created from last year's strain might do nothing to prevent catching the virus the next flu season.

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