Do you know...when to use a prescription antiviral for flu treatment versus flu prevention?

It's very simple, actually Once you feel the first symptoms of the flu—the headache, the achiness, the fever—it means you may be infected with the virus. Antivirals like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza) will lessen the length of time you are sick with the flu and reduce your risk for complications such as pneumonia. Not only that, but you'll be less contagious. So by all means, ask your doctor for a prescription and begin taking the medication within 12-48 hours of symptom onset for optimal results.

Now, as for preventing the flu...if someone you have been around comes down with the flu, call your doctor. Explain the situation and ask for a prescription for either Tamiflu or Relenza. Studies find both can reduce your risk of getting the flu once you've been exposed.

Categories: Health, Illness, Flu, Influenza, Antiviral, Vaccine Tags: flu, influenza, antiviral