Flu Fighters: Tamiflu and Beyond

Flu season can be brutal. High fever, coughing fits, and a stuffy nose can make anyone feel miserable. Many people turn to Tamiflu for relief, but it's not the only option out there. There are other treatments that might work better for some folks. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends four antiviral drugs to fight the flu: Tamiflu, Xofluza, Relenza, and Rapivab. Each has its own perks and downsides. Tamiflu is a well-known choice. It comes in liquid or capsules and is taken twice a day for five days. It can also be used to prevent the flu. The cost is usually around $50 without insurance. Common side effects include nausea and vomiting. Xofluza is another option. It's a single-dose tablet approved for people aged 5 and older. It can treat and prevent the flu. The cost is higher, around $200 without insurance, but coupons can help. Side effects include diarrhea and vomiting. Rapivab is given as an IV infusion and is approved for ages 6 months and older. It can be expensive, up to $1, 000 without insurance. Diarrhea is a common side effect.Relenza is inhaled as a powder and is used twice a day for five days. It's approved for ages 7 and older for treatment and ages 5 and older for prevention. It can cost up to $90 without insurance. Side effects include allergic reactions, dizziness, and nose irritation. It's not recommended for people with breathing problems like asthma. Xofluza is gaining popularity, but it's not always easy to find or covered by insurance. Some doctors prefer it because it stops viral shedding faster than Tamiflu. However, there's a concern about the flu virus developing resistance to Xofluza, especially in younger kids. Tamiflu is often the go-to choice, especially for hospitalized patients. It's been around longer and has fewer concerns about resistance. But Xofluza has its advantages, like being a single dose and having fewer side effects. Doctors are still studying the best ways to treat the flu, especially for severe cases. Combining different antiviral medications might be the future of flu treatment.