Just as flu shots can help prevent the flu (influenza), antiviral medications can help reduce how long you have the flu. This is important, especially if you are in a high-risk group.
At Banner Health, your health and well-being are our top priority. We’re here to help you understand how antivirals can tackle the flu virus and help you recover faster.
Flu antiviral drugs are prescription medications (pills, liquid, inhaled powder or intravenous (IV)) designed to fight against the flu in your body. They work by blocking the virus from multiplying and spreading, which can shorten how long you are sick and lower the risk of complications.
There are currently four Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved antiviral drugs that used to treat the flu.
The most prescribed antivirals for the flu are neuraminidase inhibitors. They work by blocking the neuraminidase enzyme, which is needed for the flu virus to replicate. Some examples include:
Another type of antiviral drug works by targeting a different part of the flu virus’ replication process:
Taking antivirals early can shorten the length of the flu by about one day and help you feel better sooner.
They may also lower the risk of severe complications (such as pneumonia, ear infections and hospitalization), especially if you are at high risk for complications.
Antivirals can also help reduce the amount of virus being produced within your body, helping limit the spread of the virus to family members, friends, coworkers and your community.
Flu antiviral medications are prescribed by your health care provider and are used to treat flu symptoms. They work best when taken within 48 hours (about two days) of getting sick.
Flu antivirals are recommended for the following groups:
In addition to treating the flu, some antivirals can also be used for flu prevention. However, they are only recommended in certain situations. Getting an annual flu shot is still the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Your provider may recommend antivirals for prevention if you:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), side effects can vary for each of the antiviral medications:
Other less common side effects have been reported. Your health care provider will determine which medicine is right for you.
No, antibiotics only cure bacterial infections. They will not kill cold or flu viruses.
Antiviral drugs for flu only work to treat the flu and are different from other antiviral drugs used to treat other viruses, such as COVID-19.
Emergency symptoms of the flu that you shouldn’t ignore
If you or a loved one have the following symptoms, call your provider immediately:
Learn more about seeking medical care for the flu.
While flu antivirals help treat the flu, the best way to stop the flu is to get a flu shot. That’s because several flu strains circulate each season.
The flu shot boosts your defense against these strains, even if you’ve already had one of them this year. This can help limit how sick you get if you get the flu again.
Learn more about flu vaccination and common myths and facts about flu shots.