Medicines for Cold & Flu

About Cold & Flu

The common cold and flu are viral infections of the nose, throat and airways. A cold causes a runny or blocked nose, sneezing and a sore throat. Flu comes on suddenly with fever, body aches, tiredness and cough.

Most people recover in about a week with rest, fluids and simple remedies. Antibiotics do not work against colds or flu.

Medicines used for Cold & Flu

Paracetamol eases fever and aches. Cold and flu combinations may add a decongestant such as pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine and an antihistamine such as chlorpheniramine. Xylometazoline nasal spray clears a blocked nose but should not be used for more than five to seven days. Oseltamivir is an antiviral for flu in people at higher risk, started early on a doctor's advice.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor for difficulty breathing, chest pain, fever lasting more than three days, or symptoms in babies, older adults, pregnant women or people with long-term illness. Check with a pharmacist before giving cold medicines to children.

This page is for general information only. Many of these medicines need a prescription; please use them only on the advice of a doctor or pharmacist, who can choose the right medicine and dose for you.