These days, fever and cold are everywhere, right? Sometimes we call this 'viral fever'. So this flu is also a disease that comes from such a virus, which is a bit difficult and can kill the body. When you get flu, the doctor may sometimes give you a special medicine in addition to the medicine given for regular flu. This is what we call antiviral drugs. Let's talk about this in a little more detail and simply today.
What are these antiviral drugs?
Simply put, these are drugs that reduce or control the ability of the flu virus to further infect or spread after it has entered our body. Think of the virus as a machine that rapidly makes copies of itself inside our body. What these antiviral drugs do is turn off that copy machine. This reduces the chance of the virus spreading throughout the body and causing serious damage.
If used correctly, this medicine can help reduce the severity of flu symptoms and shorten the number of days you are sick by one or two. This means you can get better faster and get back to your normal life.
When should I use this medicine?
Here's the most important point in this article: These medications are most effective when taken within the first 48 hours of flu symptoms (fever, body aches, cough, runny nose, etc.).
Why is that? Because the virus spreads most rapidly in our bodies in the first two days. If you start taking the medicine within that time, it's much easier to control the virus. Even taking the medicine after 48 hours can have some benefit, especially in preventing serious complications. But, to get the most benefit, the first 48 hours are crucial.
This medicine is mainly used to treat the flu and, in some special cases, to prevent the disease from developing.
Is this medicine also given to prevent the flu?
Yes, sometimes they do. Imagine that someone in your household, or someone you are in close contact with, has the flu. If you are worried that you might get it too, sometimes your doctor may prescribe this medicine to prevent you from getting the disease.
But this is not something that is done regularly or routinely. Because if these medications are used routinely, over time the flu virus can become drug-resistant. Then, even if someone who really needs the medication is given it may not work.
Therefore, this type of medication is usually only given to people who are at high risk of developing severe complications if they get the flu.
| People who need special care if they get the flu (High-Risk Groups) | |
|---|---|
| Pregnant mothers | The risk of complications is higher during pregnancy due to low immunity. |
| Young children (especially those under 2 years old) | Because the immune system is still developing. |
| People over 65 years of age | Due to weakening of immunity with age. |
| People with chronic illnesses | Examples: Conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and liver disease. |
The most important thing for everyone to remember is that the best and most effective way to protect yourself from the flu is to get the flu vaccine. Talk to your doctor about this.
What are the main antivirals recommended for the flu?
There are several types of antiviral drugs that are commonly used in Sri Lanka and the world. All of these should only be obtained with a doctor's prescription.
| Drug Name | How to use | Who is it usually recommended for? |
|---|---|---|
| Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) | As a pill or liquid taken by mouth | For treatment: For those over 2 weeks. Prevention: For those over one year old. (This is most commonly used in Sri Lanka) |
| Zanamivir (Relenza) | As an inhaled powder | For treatment: For those over 7 years old. Prevention: For those over 5 years old. |
| Baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza) | As a pill taken by mouth | For treatment: For those over 12 years old. |
| Peramivir | As an intravenous fluid | For treatment only: For those over 2 years old. (Usually for hospitalized patients) |
It is important to remember that all of these medications are most effective if started within the first 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.
Are there any side effects from this medication?
Yes, like any medicine, there can be minor side effects. But there's nothing to worry about, most of the time these are not serious. But it's good to be aware of them.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach ache or diarrhea
- Some people have dizziness.
- Runny nose or stuffy nose
Special Note: The inhaled drug Zanamivir (Relenza) is not generally recommended for people with lung diseases such as asthma and COPD , as it may worsen their breathing problems.
Don't worry, your doctor will prescribe the safest and most appropriate medication for you, taking into account your health condition, other illnesses, and medications you are taking.
What is the best time to talk to a doctor?
The best thing to do is to talk to your family doctor about the flu vaccine and other medications before the flu season (which is usually more prevalent at certain times of the year) begins.
However, if you start to experience flu symptoms, see a doctor immediately . Don't delay. Remember, the first 48 hours are crucial. The sooner you start treatment, the sooner you can get better and prevent serious complications.
Take-Home Message
- Antiviral medications are medications that reduce the severity and duration of the flu, but are not a 'magic' cure for the disease.
- To get the most benefit from these medications, treatment should begin within the first 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.
- The best and safest way to protect yourself from the flu is to get the annual flu vaccine.
- These are medications that should only be taken on the recommendation of a doctor. Never use them on the recommendation of others or at your own discretion.
- If you are a pregnant mother, a young child, an elderly person, or someone with another chronic illness, seek medical advice immediately if you develop flu symptoms.
💬 Comments (0)
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts here.
Add Your Comment