Understanding Influenza Antiviral Medications: What You Need to Know
The viral respiratory infection known as influenza, or the flu, is brought on by influenza viruses. The intensity of influenza symptoms might vary, but typically they include:
Fever
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Body aches
Headache
Fatigue
Chills
Vomiting and diarrhea are also occasionally experienced by people, though children are more likely to experience these symptoms than adults are.
Influenza typically goes away on its own in a few days to a week. Nevertheless, problems like pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and ear infections may occur in some persons. Your doctor may recommend antiviral medication, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), and favipiravir (Fabiflu 200) which can help lessen the severity and duration of your symptoms, if you are at high risk for problems or your symptoms are severe.
In addition to antiviral medication, there are several other steps you can take to manage your symptoms and prevent the spread of influenza:
Get plenty of rest.
Drink plenty of fluids
Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to relieve fever and body aches.
Use a humidifier or take a hot shower to relieve congestion.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Oral antiviral suspensions like Fluvir 75 are effective in treating influenza, particularly in those with severe symptoms or a high risk of complications.
The antiviral treatment for influenza that is most frequently prescribed is oseltamivir (Tamiflu), which is offered as an oral suspension and a capsule. For those who have trouble swallowing capsules, the oral suspension is a liquid version of the drug that may be more comfortable to take.
By preventing the influenza virus from functioning, oseltamivir aims to lessen the severity and duration of symptoms. It can still be helpful if begun later, but it is most effective when started within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.
Antiviral drugs can be useful in the treatment of influenza, but they are not always required or suitable for everyone. Based on your symptoms, medical history, and other variables, your healthcare practitioner can help you decide whether antiviral medicine is the best choice for you. When taking antiviral medication, it's crucial to adhere to your doctor's advice and directions, which may include finishing the entire course of therapy even if you start to feel better.
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