How to Select a Flu Medication

The flu is a very difficult illness once it has fully developed in your system, but it is possible to take flu medication to control the symptoms. The flu vaccine is also available to help prevent the flu from developing. Which medication you select to control the flu is entirely up to you, as each works to varying degrees from person to person.

Things You'll Need

• Professional medical assistance
• Flu medication

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Instructions

Select Flu Medication

• 1

  Get a flu shot before symptoms even begin to appear. The flu shot is available for children and adults ages 5 to 49 (or older if permitted by your doctor), and is one of the most effective means of preventing the flu.

• 2

  Note that in order to receive true flu medication (not over-the counter remedies or simpler treatments) you will need to visit a doctor. Prescription strength flu medication is only available after examination by a medical professional.

• 3

  Ask your doctor about Symmetrel and Flumadine, two types of influenza medication known to be effective against Influenza Type A. Some strains of the virus are or appear to have become resistant to the drugs, however, so speak to your doctor for more information.

• 4

  Treat Influenza Type B with Relenza or Tamiflu. Influenza Type B is not yet resistant to the drugs, and they are also capable of being effective against Influenza Type A as well. These two medications are also most effective if they are administered within the first 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, since their effectiveness decreases after time.

• 5

  Turn to antibiotics like ribavirin in the event that any influenza infection progresses to include pneumonia.

• 6

  Use over the counter options when the symptoms are less severe or at the tail end of the infection. Products like Afrin can help with nasal congestion, and options such as Sudafed and Theraflu are great for reducing symptoms as well.