If you get the flu, rest and fluids are usually the main treatment. But for some people, prescription antiviral medicines can make a meaningful difference. Antivirals can shorten illness, ease symptoms and, most importantly for high-risk people, lower the chance of serious complications like pneumonia and hospitalization.
What are flu antivirals?
Flu antivirals are prescription medicines that fight the influenza virus in your body. They’re different from antibiotics, which only treat bacterial infections. Common flu antivirals include:
- Oseltamivir (Tamiflu), taken as a pill or liquid, usually for 5 days
- Baloxavir (Xofluza), a single-dose pill
- Zanamivir (Relenza), an inhaled medicine (not recommended for people with asthma or COPD)
- Peramivir (Rapivab), given by IV
Who should get antivirals?
According to the CDC, antiviral treatment is recommended as early as possible for people with suspected or confirmed flu who:
- Are hospitalized, or have severe or worsening illness
- Are at higher risk of complications, including adults 65 and older, children under 2 (and up to 5), pregnant people and those up to two weeks after delivery, and people with chronic conditions such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or kidney or liver disease
- Have weakened immune systems
- Live in nursing homes or long-term care facilities
Otherwise healthy people may also be prescribed antivirals if they’re seen early, based on their doctor’s judgment.
Why timing matters
Antivirals work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset. However, for people who are hospitalized or at high risk, doctors may still recommend them after 48 hours. If you’re at higher risk and develop flu symptoms, call your doctor right away. Don’t wait to see if you get better.
Side effects
The most common side effects of oseltamivir are nausea and vomiting, which can be reduced by taking it with food. Other antivirals have their own side effects. Ask your pharmacist what to expect.
Antivirals for prevention
In some situations, such as an outbreak in a nursing home, antivirals may be used to prevent flu in people who’ve been exposed. This doesn’t replace the flu vaccine, which remains the best way to prevent flu.
What this means for you
If you’re at higher risk and develop fever, aches, cough or sore throat during flu season, contact your doctor, urgent care or a telehealth service promptly. Testing can help, but treatment may be started based on symptoms during flu season. Learn about home testing and caring for flu at home.
The bottom line
Flu antivirals can shorten illness and lower the risk of serious complications, especially for high-risk people. They work best when started within two days of symptoms, so call your doctor early.
Common questions
Do I need a positive test to get antivirals?
Not always. During flu season, doctors may prescribe antivirals based on symptoms, especially for high-risk patients, without waiting for test results.
Are antivirals safe for children and during pregnancy?
Yes, oseltamivir is recommended for children and pregnant people with flu. Your doctor will choose the right medicine and dose.
Will antivirals stop me from spreading the flu?
Antivirals may reduce the amount of virus you shed, but you can still be contagious. Stay home until you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medicine.
Can I take antivirals if I’ve had a flu shot?
Yes. If you get the flu despite being vaccinated and you’re at higher risk, antivirals are still recommended.
This article is for general information and isn’t medical advice. Talk with your healthcare provider about your individual needs.
