How Long Does the Flu Last? Do I Really Need Flu Medication?
The flu or influenza is a very unpleasant illness which in most people lasts a week to ten days but it can persist and develop into a long illness. Most flu treatments focus on symptomatic relief but there are medicines available called anti-viral drugs which can help prevent the flu virus from multiplying in your body. Pharmacy Planet sells the two major brands of anti-virals, Tamiflu capsules and Relenza, both available online in the UK from our secure online pharmacy store.
What does flu treatment involve?
Anti-viral medication can help make the symptoms of flu less severe and shortens the recovery time by, on average, one to two days. It works by preventing the flu virus from growing. The symptoms include:-
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Aches and pains
- Tiredness
Flu treatments can also be used to prevent the flu if a person is exposed to someone who has it or has had it. The time you take the medication will vary depending on whether you already have flu or whether the treatment is being used for preventative purposes.
How safe is flu medication?
Flu medication can have some quite serious side effects but because flu can be a dangerous illness particularly for certain groups of people, any unpleasant side effects are usually considered worth tolerating. Tamiflu, in particular, can cause nausea, vomiting, skin sensitivity and even hallucinations. However, Tamiflu can lessen the severity of flu by about 10%-30% so in certain vulnerable groups like young children, older people aged over 65 and those with a pre-existing health condition, it can still be a very worthwhile treatment and often prevents hospitalisation in severe cases.
Reducing the length of the illness is also important as those people who are sicker for longer are also at risk of contracting other serious illnesses like pneumonia.
For advice on the flu contact Pharmacy Planet for medications to help relieve the symptoms and Tamiflu capsules online and Relenza online UK. Our service is backed with advice and information from professional pharmacists, secure ordering and quick despatch. Learn more on our website https://www.pharmacyplanet.com
Authored By
HARMINDER ‘HARMY’ KAUR
BSc(hons) Pharmacy
GPhC Number: 2061107
Reviewed By
GURDEV SEHMI
BSc Pharm, MRPharmS, Independent Prescriber, Superintendent Pharmacist, Clinical Lead
GPhC Number: 2050925