Over-the-counter remedies relieve fever, aches and congestion but don't eliminate influenza. Prescription antivirals can reduce illness duration and complications when started early or used in high-risk patients. Annual flu vaccination lowers the chance of infection and severe outcomes. Monitor high-risk groups and seek medical care for severe or worsening symptoms.

What flu remedies treat

There's no single "cure" that instantly eliminates influenza. Most over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and home remedies ease symptoms - fever, chills, nasal congestion, sore throat, body aches and cough - so you feel better while your immune system clears the virus.

Symptom treatments help you rest and function. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can lower fever and relieve aches. Decongestants, saline sprays and antihistamines may ease a runny or stuffy nose. Cough suppressants and expectorants can reduce coughing or loosen mucus. These treatments do not kill the influenza virus; they reduce discomfort and complications from symptoms like dehydration or poor sleep.

Antivirals: partial treatments for some people

Prescription antiviral drugs (for example, oseltamivir, zanamivir, peramivir and baloxavir) target the flu virus itself and can reduce illness duration and complications when used appropriately. They work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset, although clinicians may prescribe them later for severe cases or people at high risk of complications (young children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with chronic conditions). Antivirals are not a guaranteed cure, but they can reduce hospitalization and speed recovery for selected patients.

Vaccination is prevention, not instant immunity

The seasonal flu vaccine trains the immune system to recognize likely circulating strains. Vaccination reduces the risk of getting influenza, and - if you do get sick - lowers the chance of severe illness, hospitalization and death. Because influenza viruses change (antigenic drift and occasional shift), the vaccine is updated each year and its effectiveness varies by season and age group. Getting vaccinated annually remains the best population-level defense.

Typical course and when to seek care

Uncomplicated influenza typically causes acute symptoms for about 3-7 days; cough and fatigue can persist for two weeks or longer. Children and people with weakened immune systems may have longer or more severe illness. Seek medical care if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, severe or persistent vomiting, dehydration, confusion, or symptoms that suddenly worsen.

Practical takeaways

  • OTC medicines and home remedies treat symptoms, not the virus. Use them to stay comfortable and hydrated.
  • Antivirals can shorten illness and reduce complications for some patients, especially when started early.
  • Annual vaccination is the most effective strategy to reduce influenza risk and severity at the population level.
  • Watch high-risk people (young children, older adults, pregnant people, those with chronic conditions) and get medical advice promptly if illness is severe.
By understanding what each option does, you can choose the right combination of prevention and care while your immune system clears the infection.

FAQs about Flu Remedies

Do over-the-counter flu remedies cure the flu?
No. OTC medicines relieve symptoms - fever, aches, congestion and cough - but they do not kill the influenza virus. They make you more comfortable while your immune system fights the infection.
When are antiviral drugs useful?
Antivirals can shorten illness and lower complication risk, especially when started within 48 hours of symptoms. Clinicians may also prescribe them later for severe cases or people at high risk of complications.
Should I get the flu vaccine every year?
Yes. Seasonal flu vaccines are updated annually to match circulating strains and remain the best way to reduce infection risk and the severity of illness if you do get influenza.
How long does the flu usually last?
Uncomplicated influenza commonly causes acute symptoms for about 3-7 days; cough and fatigue can persist for two weeks or more. Duration varies by age and underlying health.
When should I see a doctor for the flu?
Seek care for difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, severe or persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration, or sudden worsening. Also consult a clinician promptly if you are in a high-risk group.