The flu and antivirals

The flu and antivirals

Q. What are influenza antiviral drugs?

A. These medications are prescription drugs that decrease the ability of flu viruses to reproduce. While getting a flu vaccine each year is the first and most important step in protecting against flu, antiviral drugs are a second line of defense in the prevention and treatment of flu.

Q. What are the treatment benefits of influenza antiviral drugs?

A. For treatment, antiviral drugs should be started within two days after becoming sick. When used this way, these drugs can reduce the severity of flu symptoms and shorten the time you are sick by one or two days. They also might prevent serious flu complications.

Antiviral drugs can be especially important for people who are very sick or people who are sick with the flu and who are at increased risk of serious flu complications, such as pregnant women, young children and those with chronic health conditions.

Q. How effective are antiviral drugs at preventing the flu?

A. When used to prevent the flu, antiviral drugs are about 70percent to 90 percent effective against viruses that are not resistant to the antiviral medication. It’s important to remember that flu antiviral drugs are not a substitute for getting a flu vaccine.

Q. What side effects can occur with influenza antiviral drugs?

A. Side effects differ for each drug. Talk with your doctor about specific medications.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention