Using Antiviral and Over-the-Counter Medications

Antiviral medications must be prescribed by a healthcare provider and come in pill, liquid and inhaler forms. Flu antivirals only work against flu viruses and work best when started soon after symptoms begin (within 2 days); however, these drugs can still be considered after the initial 48-hour time period.

As the novel H1N1 flu spreads, these antiviral drugs may become in short supply, and may be given first to those people who have been hospitalized or are most vulnerable to developing a severe illness from flu.

Tamiflu® (generic name: oseltamivir) is approved to treat and prevent the flu in adults and children over 1 year.

Reports of Tamiflu Resistance
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is aware of reports of several cases of oseltamivir (Tamiflu) resistance to novel H1N1 flu virus. While the flu virus can mutate spontaneously, this resistance has not changed the capability of the virus to transmit or cause disease.

At this time, the World Health Organization does not recommend any changes in how antivirals should be prescribed.

Relenza® (generic name: zanamivir) is approved to treat the flu in adults and children over 7 years, and to prevent the flu in adults and children over 5 years.

Healthcare providers may consider Tamiflu and Relenza for the prevention of flu symptoms in well people most vulnerable to complications from H1N1 as well as in caregivers treating someone with the flu.

Over-The-Counter Medications

Over-the-counter cold, flu and fever-reducing medications may also help ease flu symptoms. But beware of double-dosing: many already contain acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Check with your healthcare provider:

  • If you are considering cold medication for children younger than 4 years
  • Before taking NSAIDS (like naproxen) if you have kidney disease or stomach problems 
  • If you are taking other medications for something other than flu symptoms

H1N1 Symptom Treatment At A Glance

  Infants under 1 year Children 1-4 years Children over 5 and teens Adults
Tamiflu®
prescription antiviral for flu symptoms and prevention		        
Relenza®
prescription antiviral for flu symptoms and prevention		     Treatment 7+ years; prevention 5+ years  
Acetaminophen
(Brand name Tylenol®) for fevers and aches		   Check with healthcare provider    
Ibuprofen
(Brand names Motrin®, Advil®, Nuprin®) for fevers and aches		   Check with healthcare provider   (except pregnant women)
Naproxen
(Brand name Aleve®) for fevers and aches		       (except pregnant women)