Complex preparations for colds and flu: an individual approach. What is the best and most effective medicine for flu and colds? What is the best medicine for a cold

A quick-acting cold remedy is what a patient is looking for on pharmacy shelves with signs of acute respiratory infections.

The popularity of such drugs is understandable: they significantly improve well-being, help to overcome the disease more easily.

Which of them are the most effective? Are infectious pathogens destroyed? To answer the questions, you should become more familiar with the principles of pharmacotherapy for respiratory diseases.

Types of Cold and Flu Medicines

Etiotropic

The common cold is a “household” term, which means an acute respiratory disease (ARI) of viral (ARVI) or bacterial origin. ARVI occupies 90-95% in the structure of all cases of acute respiratory infections. Influenza also belongs to this group, but it is usually considered separately.

Antiviral agents differ from each other in the mechanism of action. Modern classification:

M2 channel blockers. They act only on the influenza A virus. The representative is rimantadine (Remantadine). Recognized as obsolete due to the almost complete resistance to it of modern strains.

Neuraminidase inhibitors. Do not allow new viral particles to be released from infected cells. Affect influenza strains A and B. Representatives registered in Russia: oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza).

Hemagglutinin blockers. They help cure by preventing the virus from attaching to the host cell. One of the hypothesized mechanisms of action of umifenovir (Arbidol). Scope: influenza strains A and B, coronavirus SARS.

DNA polymerase inhibitor. Ribavirin affects the course of SARS, but has found application in the treatment of viral hepatitis C.

NP-protein inhibitors. Suppress the reproduction of the virus. Ingavirin acts on the pathogens of influenza A and B, adenoviruses.

Stimulants for the production of interferons. Ergoferon is active against parainfluenza viruses, adenovirus, influenza strains A and B, respiratory syncytial virus, coronavirus. An early representative, also containing antibodies to the pro-inflammatory mediator interferon - Anaferon.

In severe forms of influenza, human immunoglobulin helps. It is a ready-made set of antibodies to the infectious agent.

The remaining share of the causes of acute respiratory infections (5-10%) are bacterial infections, which are rare in isolated form. More often they join already against the background of the current viral defeat.

Only a doctor can correctly prescribe antibiotic therapy and safely cure acute respiratory infections. The drug is selected in accordance with the sensitivity of the pathogen. In outpatient practice, penicillin derivatives (Amoxiclav) and macrolides (Azithromycin) are actively used.
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Symptomatic

They do not have an etiotropic effect if taken from a cold, but they improve well-being. Some medicines that are used:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory. Ibuprofen, paracetamol have an antipyretic effect.

Antitussives. For example, to suppress an intense dry cough - drugs of central action (Sinekod). To improve sputum discharge - expectorants (licorice root), mucolytics (ambroxol).

Anticongestants. Reduce swelling of the mucosa. Effective for colds. A well-known old representative is Naphthyzin.

Local antiseptics. In the form of lozenges, sprays, rinse solutions (Strepsils, Faringosept, Tantum Verde).

You can quickly get rid of colds and flu through competent combination therapy. The use of exclusively symptomatic drugs does not guarantee a speedy recovery and the absence of complications. Not every immune system is strong enough to fight off an infection on its own.

First aid for colds: an effective and quick remedy

What to do when the disease is taken by surprise? Quickly relieve the symptoms of colds and flu will help special soluble powders.

After dilution with water, warm, pleasant-tasting medicinal drinks are obtained from them. In composition, this is a set of crushed symptomatic drugs.

Theraflu

Contains paracetamol (antipyretic), phenylephrine (anticongestant), pheniramine (antihistamine). Thanks to them, it normalizes body temperature, helps reduce runny nose and sneezing.

This fast-acting cold medicine contains ascorbic acid. Vitamin C indirectly speeds up recovery. It reduces the permeability of the vascular wall, inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators. Increases the effect of paracetamol by slowing its excretion.

Fervex

Powder with lemon flavor. It differs from Theraflu in the absence of phenylephrine. Includes more paracetamol.

Helps to quickly relieve a cold (its symptoms), but not always affordable for the patient. A less expensive alternative is Antigrippin (not to be confused with homeopathic Agri).

Rinza

Suitable for those who need not only to cope with fever and runny nose, but also to restore vigor. Similar to Theraflu, but contains caffeine instead of vitamin C.

Coldrex

This fast-acting cold remedy deserves special consideration. Looks like Fervex. The content of paracetamol for one dose exceeds the safety recommendations (750 mg).

If the choice fell on him, care should be taken with the dosage. The maximum allowable daily amount of paracetamol intake is 4 g. For people with liver pathologies, this figure is even less.

How to quickly relieve the symptoms of a cold?

One intake of "powders" is not enough. What should be included in a quick cold cure? Mandatory medications (etiotropic and symptomatic), and general non-drug measures. Namely:

Plentiful drink. It is necessary to cope with intoxication. Preference for compotes, fruit drinks, natural juices.

Power correction. If your appetite has worsened during acute respiratory infections, you do not need to force yourself to eat. It will improve when the body needs it. It is recommended to include soups, broths (for example, chicken) in the diet.

Peace and warmth. Even if after the antipyretic it became better, this does not mean that the body immediately went on the mend. It is better to spend a few days treating yourself at home and fully recover from a cold than to get complications.

Airing. It is necessary to ventilate the room, but a draft is unacceptable.

Actions seem simple, but they are important. Sometimes they are enough to cope with a mild ARI on their own.

Cold medicines: fast-acting and inexpensive

Inexpensive plant-based throat lozenges - Dr. Theiss "Sage". They have an antiseptic effect.

If slightly, Neo-Angin antiseptic is suitable. With severe complaints, Grammidin NEO with an anesthetic can be used. It contains lidocaine, which has an analgesic effect.

An effective medicine for the treatment of throat, allowed even for pregnant women, is Lyzobact based on lysozyme and vitamin B6. Can be replaced with a cheaper Laripront. These tablets also contain lysozyme, but the pyridoxine has been replaced with dequalinium chloride (an antiseptic).

Gargling helps to cope with inflammation and pain in the throat. The cheapest, but effective solutions are water-salt, furatsilin.

For washing the nose, water-salt solutions are effective. For example, Aquamaris and its cheaper analogue Aquamaster. The most inexpensive option for washing - You can make it yourself, but it is better to purchase it at a pharmacy.

Rapid remedy for SARS

There is no universal substance that allows you to recover quickly from a cold. Therapy must be comprehensive.

For the best effect, manufacturers of antiviral drugs recommend starting treatment no later than 48 hours (ideally 24 hours) from the onset of the disease. The choice of medication should be based on the type of suspected pathogen.

Interferon inductors and immunomodulators have relative "universality". Ergoferon combined the properties of both groups.

But it is worth noting that this is homeopathy, the effectiveness of which remains in doubt. There are currently no interferon inducers with a good evidence base for effectiveness.

If adenovirus infection is suspected, NP-protein inhibitors are prescribed. One of the popular representatives is Ingavirin.

The effectiveness of antiviral drugs is still the subject of lively debate. You should not buy them "blindly", based on bright advertising or recommendations from friends. Only a doctor can correctly determine the type of infection and select a specific treatment, if necessary.

Quick remedy for colds and flu

If you have flu symptoms, be sure to contact your healthcare professional. Due to untimely and improper treatment, the infection can not only lead to complications, but also to death. In the world, 0.2% of the population dies from it every year.

As in the previous case, the selection of therapy is carried out according to the pathogen and the severity of the disease. Indicated drugs: Tamiflu, Relenza, Arbidol, Ingavirin.

The evidence base is greater for Tamiflu and Relenza. But they have common side effects. The main ones are nausea and vomiting. Released by prescription.

In the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, Viferon has found application. This quick cold remedy contains human interferon.

It is used in the form of rectal suppositories, gels and ointments. Recommended for use by people with weakened immune systems.

Fast acting folk remedy for colds

Home remedies are more symptomatic. It is possible to quickly cure a cold with folk remedies without the use of traditional medicines only in mild cases. All recipes are recommended to be combined with a full therapy.

What will do? Inhalations, rinses, medicinal drinks.

Inhalations

Quick relief for colds with runny nose, itching and cough. To perform inhalations at home, use a kettle with a funnel inserted into the spout, or a saucepan. If possible, it is better to replace them with a pharmacy inhaler.

With nasal congestion, fir oil is suitable. Inhalations can be not only wet, but also dry. For the second option, it is enough to soak a piece of cloth with oil and periodically bring it to the nose.

With a feeling of scratching in the throat, steam inhalations with chamomile are shown. The plant has an antiseptic effect, reduces swelling, and has a calming effect on the inflamed mucosa.

rinses

Home solutions suppress sore throat. Suitable decoctions of chamomile, sage. Calendula has proven itself as a good natural antiseptic.

Why not gargle? Definitely Kerosene. Some patients still practice this old and dangerous method.

Hot drinks

Perfectly copes with intoxication decoction of wild rose. This quick cold remedy is high in vitamin C.

Boiled milk effectively reduces sore throat. The drink should be warm, but not scalding hot.

Despite the fact that acute respiratory infections are common and pass relatively without a trace, they require a thoughtful approach to therapy. Why? The disease "on its feet" due to inadequate treatment often ends in complications.

Uncontrolled use of drugs is fraught with the emergence of resistance to them, and this will complicate the treatment of new episodes of pathology. It is important to understand the principles of dealing with the disease, but it is better to entrust the preparation of a treatment plan to a doctor.

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Colds during seasonal temperature changes are common. Only people with sufficiently strong immunity do not suffer. But children are the first to be at risk. Everyone should know how to protect their body and recover quickly if it was not possible to avoid a cold.

Cold drops

As soon as you feel unwell and sore throat, you should cancel all business and start treatment. First of all, it is necessary to help the immune system fight viruses. This task is perfectly handled in drops. The most popular drug today that can quickly remove the symptoms of flu and colds is the drug "Aflubin". It is a clear, colorless alcohol-based liquid. Drops "Aflubin" relieve chills, relieve irritation and pain in the upper respiratory tract, reduce joint pain. The drug can also be used for prophylactic purposes, if it was not possible to avoid contact with the patient.

Despite the alcohol content, the drug can be administered to children from birth. The amount of ethanol in the composition is negligible. Drops "Aflubin" help women fight colds during pregnancy and lactation. The dosage of the drug is determined depending on the form of the disease. During the period of exacerbation, adults and children over 12 years old should use 10 drops of the drug up to 8 times a day. As a prophylaxis, the drug "Aflubin" is used only 3 times a day. Children under 4 years of age are prescribed 2-4 drops 5 times a day.

Another popular anti-cold remedy based on interferon is Nazoferon drops. The drug can also be prescribed to infants and women during pregnancy and lactation. These are nasal drops that fight the main symptoms of colds and flu. During the period of exacerbation of the disease, Nazoferon drops are injected into each nasal passage 5 times a day. The difference between the drug is a short shelf life. You can use it only for 15 days from the date of opening the bottle. It is necessary to store anti-cold remedies of such a plan in the refrigerator.

hot medicine mug

The list of cold medicines for adults in most cases opens with powders for making hot drinks. These are medicines that are dispensed without a prescription and are sold in any pharmacy. One of the most popular is Coldrex powder. This drug has antiviral, antipyretic, and immunostimulating effects. The main active ingredient is paracetamol, which effectively relieves pain.

Powder "Coldrex" can only be prescribed for the treatment of respiratory diseases. A bacterial infection cannot be eliminated with this remedy. The dosage of the drug is set by the doctor individually and depends on the severity of the disease and the characteristics of the patient's body. Do not take more than 4 sachets per day. Cold medicines for children can also be used. But the age of patients must be more than 12 years.

Cold powder usually has no side effects. In rare cases, there are malfunctions in the gastrointestinal tract. The patient may feel nausea and pain in the abdomen. Sometimes there is vomiting and diarrhea. In the event of the development of such reactions, the drug should be discontinued. The doctor will prescribe other cold remedies.

Powder "Coldrex" is very popular due to its properties, as well as taste. The drug is produced with the taste of wild berries, lemon, and honey. Patients enjoy the treatment process. And the relief of the condition occurs within a few minutes after taking the drug.

Cold Balms

Many therapeutic actions for colds are based on a warming effect. In pharmacies, you can find anti-cold drugs in the form of creams and balms that are applied to the chest and provide just the same warming effect. The Eukabal remedy is very popular. The main active ingredients are essential oils of pine needles and eucalyptus. Due to the activation of blood circulation, a warming effect occurs. Ointment for colds is applied several times a day on the back and chest, avoiding the heart area.

The drug helps to quickly get rid of cough and runny nose. Balm in most cases is used as part of complex therapy. Ointment for colds is not an antipyretic. Moreover, the Eukabal remedy cannot be used if the body temperature is above 37 degrees.

The balm can also be used for steam inhalation. Essential oils contribute to liquefaction of sputum, and also relieve irritation of the respiratory mucosa. For inhalation, a teaspoon of Evkabal balm is diluted in two liters of hot water. Such a solution is suitable for a nebulizer. At the initial stage of a cold, the procedure should be performed several times a day.

Effective for adults and children about colds is Doctor Mom balm. The drug can be used for rubbing, as well as for inhalation. Children cold balm should be used with caution. Be sure to consult with your pediatrician. There are practically no contraindications for the balm. It should not be used only by people who have skin diseases or are prone to allergic reactions.

Cough syrup

Almost any cold is accompanied by a cough. The composition of complex therapy must necessarily include syrups that thin sputum and relieve irritation in the throat. It is not recommended to choose a cold remedy for children and adults without consulting a doctor. The specialist must determine the form of cough and localization of infection. Only after a series of tests can a cough syrup be prescribed.

One of the most popular remedies, which has been familiar to many since childhood, is Pertusin syrup. The main active ingredient is thyme extract. Potassium bromide acts as an auxiliary substance. The syrup has antitussive and mucolytic effects. Thyme enhances the activity of the bronchial glands. With a dry cough, sputum begins to stand out, and with a wet cough, the contents in the lungs become less viscous and are quickly expectorated. A huge advantage of Pertusin syrup is its low price. In pharmacies, the product can be purchased for only 25 rubles.

Many are accustomed to trusting modern medicines. The list of new drugs opens with Gedelix cough syrup, which has not only a thinning effect, but also an antispasmodic. The tool perfectly helps to relieve bouts of dry cough. And you can use it from birth. The syrup interacts well with others. Therefore, it can be safely used as part of complex therapy. But self-medication is still not worth it. The doctor will tell you the dosage and course of treatment.

Anti-cold medicines in tablets

There are many anti-cold drugs in the form of tablets in pharmacies. But they should not be used on their own. Only a specialist can determine the form of the disease. It is impossible to cure a bacterial infection with simple antiviral drugs. If the cause of the ailment is a respiratory infection, anti-cold drugs will come to the rescue in the form of tablets. The list opens with a medication called "Anaferon". The tool is available in various dosages. For the treatment of babies, it is worth purchasing Anaferon for Children.

Cold tablets can be used not only for the treatment of acute respiratory diseases, but also as a preventive measure. One has only to use one tablet of "Anaferon" per day to avoid illness during seasonal temperature changes. Tablets can also be part of complex therapy in the treatment of a bacterial infection. Means "Anaferon" strengthens the body's defenses, and also helps to quickly restore energy after an illness.

Anti-cold pills such as Antiflu, Rinza, Coldrex, Arbidol, etc. can act as analogues. The list of drugs is quite long. Before purchasing this or that remedy, it is worth consulting with a therapist.

Lozenges for sore throat

The first signal of an upcoming cold in most cases is a sore throat. If you start treatment at an early stage, then complications can be avoided. Sore throats are great help to overcome special lollipops. Despite the fact that they act locally, it is possible to avoid serious troubles. After all, the active substance not only relieves pain, but also prevents the infection from spreading further.

The list of medicines is opened by Decatilene lozenges for sore throats. The drug has a cooling effect. It can be used as a prophylaxis during an exacerbation of seasonal morbidity, as well as after surgical intervention in the oral cavity. After tooth extraction, Decatilene lozenges do not allow a purulent infection to develop.

Lozenges for sore throats have practically no contraindications. During the period of exacerbation of diseases, they are used every two hours. In order to prevent lozenges dissolve only 2-3 times a day.

Sprays for sore throats

Like lozenges, sprays act on the infection locally. Based on phenol, similar anti-cold drugs are produced. The list opens with the spell Oracept. This drug has an antiseptic and analgesic effect. Its use in the early stages of a respiratory disease avoids complications such as runny nose, cough and fever.

Spray "Oracept" can be prescribed to children older than two years. During the period of exacerbation of the disease, the agent is sprayed up to 4 times a day. If the sore throat stops, it is worth continuing to use the spray. The course of treatment should be at least 5 days. Anti-cold drugs in the form of a spray can be prescribed to women during pregnancy and lactation. But you should not use medications without consulting a therapist.

Vasoconstrictor drops

If a cold is accompanied by a runny nose, vasoconstrictor drops can be used as part of complex therapy. These are medications that relieve swelling of the mucosa and facilitate the entry of oxygen into the lungs through the nasal passages. Any must be used strictly according to the instructions. Adverse reactions may occur in the form of dryness and burning in the nose. Often, drug-induced rhinitis develops, caused by addiction to the drug.

The list of nasal drops is quite large. But only a few drugs can be used to treat the common cold in children under one year old. One of them is the Nazol Baby remedy. But this medication, in order to avoid adverse reactions, is recommended to be used no more than three days. A single dosage of the drug for children under one year old is one drop in each nasal passage no more than twice a day. Drops "Nazol Baby" are contraindicated in children with heart disease and diabetes. In case of manifestation of hypersensitivity to the individual components of the drug, it should be discontinued.

Grandma's cold recipes

Even at the beginning of the last century, medicines were not available to everyone. But even then people knew how to treat a cold. There are many folk recipes that help to effectively remove the fever and the main symptoms of a respiratory disease.

Any pediatrician will say that drinking plenty of water allows you to quickly overcome the disease. And if the drink is also useful, a double blow will be dealt to the infection. You can't do without plain black tea. A decoction of chamomile has an excellent effect. If the body temperature is elevated, the drink should not be consumed hot. Chamomile has an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect, helps to remove toxins from the body. Everyone should know how to treat a cold with chamomile.

Many grandmothers know that oil is great for colds. If the disease is accompanied by a cough, warm milk with butter and honey quickly relieves irritation. This drink should be consumed at night. Restful sleep will be guaranteed.

Garlic has an excellent antiviral effect. The grated vegetable is mixed with honey in a ratio of 1: 1 and used in a teaspoon 3-5 times a day. Such a remedy can also be used for prevention purposes during the period of review of seasonal infections. Such a treatment cannot be called tasty. But the effect is really amazing. Garlic with honey will save a lot of money and strengthen the protective functions of the body.

Summing up

The disease is much easier to prevent than to treat later. There are many foods that stimulate the immune system. During the period of seasonal temperature changes, it is worth eating more vegetables and fruits. Preference should be given to plants from the garden. Strawberries in October will be of little use.

If it was not possible to avoid a cold, treatment should be started as soon as the first symptoms appear. With a sore throat, special lozenges and sprays will help to quickly cope. By starting the use of drugs in a timely manner, the development of complications can be avoided. But the selection of medicines should be entrusted to a specialist.

An increase in body temperature is a serious cause for concern. If a child has a fever, you should immediately call an ambulance. Before the arrival of the doctor, you can slightly lower the temperature by rubbing with a damp towel. And the parents of children under three years of age in the first-aid kit must necessarily have such as Nurofen, Panadol or Paracetamol.

Probably, there is not a single person who would never have a cold in his life, at least in childhood. Therefore, there is no person who would not be concerned about the question of what to take for a cold.

Colds may have different names, but they are based on one reason - infection of various parts of the body and, in particular, the upper respiratory tract, with pathogens. These microorganisms are divided into two main categories - bacteria and viruses.

Treatment of acute respiratory diseases can be both symptomatic, aimed at alleviating the manifestations of the disease, and etiological, aimed at eliminating the root cause of the disease. Fortunately, antibacterial drugs or antibiotics have long been successfully used to treat diseases caused by bacteria. But in the case of diseases caused by another group of infectious agents - viruses, the situation is not so favorable. And there are several reasons for this.

Respiratory diseases caused by viruses

What diseases are acute respiratory diseases caused by viruses? These include, first of all, influenza and SARS.

The term ARVI (acute respiratory viral infection) refers to various infections caused by viruses that are not influenza pathogens. These viruses include:

• adenoviruses,
• rhinoviruses,
• parainfluenza viruses,
• coronaviruses,
• respiratory syncytial viruses.

Respiratory symptoms are also characteristic of some other viral diseases:

• measles,
• rubella,
• chickenpox,
• whooping cough

However, they are not usually classified as viral respiratory diseases.

Symptoms of parainfluenza and SARS

Symptoms of diseases caused by different types of viruses often differ little from each other. And to determine the type of disease is usually possible only by identifying the type of pathogen, which is not always easy.

Usually ARVI is characterized by symptoms such as cough, runny nose, high temperature (sometimes subfebrile, below +38º C), sore throat, headaches, frequent sneezing. Sometimes symptoms may be accompanied by signs of intoxication - nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Most experts are of the opinion that in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections in people with normal immunity and not weakened for some reason by the body, no antiviral agents are needed. These diseases, with the right approach to their treatment, go away on their own, and do not cause any complications. Therefore, the treatment of these diseases is mainly symptomatic. The only exception is syncytial infection, which can be fatal in infants.

Treatment for diseases such as SARS comes down mainly to bed rest, the creation of normal conditions for recovery - the absence of drafts, hypothermia of the body. It is also necessary to drink plenty of liquids, always warm, for example, tea with lemon. Taking vitamins and antioxidants also aids in recovery. For the treatment of a runny nose, you can use anti-inflammatory or nose-cleansing drops, for the treatment of bronchi and throat - inhalations that relieve inflammation based on herbal infusions. Good nutrition is also an important element of therapy.

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Influenza and its characteristic symptoms

Influenza symptoms often differ from those of other viral respiratory illnesses. However, this difference may not always appear. Often, in the case of high immunity or a weakened type of virus, the symptoms of influenza practically do not differ from the symptoms of SARS. However, there are a few key features to watch out for.

First of all, most varieties of influenza are characterized by a very high temperature, which can rise to +39.5 - +40ºС. The temperature usually rises to high levels in a short period of time. Thus, if the temperature is subfebrile at first, and then, after a couple of days, rises to high values, then this most likely means not the presence of the flu, but some kind of secondary infection such as pneumonia.

Also, with influenza, there is such a characteristic symptom as implicit pain in the muscles of the body, especially in the limbs (ache). This symptom can be characteristic both for the early stage of the disease, appearing a few hours before the temperature rise, and for the period when the temperature has already risen. Respiratory symptoms with influenza are usually erased compared to SARS. In most cases, with the flu, a runny nose is absent, but a strong cough may be present.

Influenza, unlike SARS, is dangerous for its complications affecting other organs - the heart, kidneys, lungs, liver. A severe form of influenza is very dangerous - toxic influenza, in which death from intoxication of the body is possible.

Influenza is usually transmitted by airborne droplets, from sick to healthy people. The influenza virus is sufficiently resistant to external influences and can persist in the external environment for a long time. The incubation period of the disease usually ranges from several hours to several days.

Experts believe that influenza most often manifests itself at ambient temperatures ranging from -5ºС to +5ºС. At these temperatures, the virus can survive for a long time. In addition, such a temperature regime contributes to the drying of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and makes them more susceptible to the virus.

There are several varieties of the influenza virus. And not all drugs are able to affect all of these types. Influenza treatment is mainly symptomatic. Taking antiviral drugs for influenza is indicated in case of a severe course of the disease, as well as with weakened immunity. It can be both etiotropic drugs and drugs - stimulants of immunity. Thanks to their use, it is often possible to reduce the duration of the disease and avoid possible serious complications.

How does a viral disease develop?

Unlike diseases caused by bacteria, viruses that enter the body directly attack human cells. The virus is usually very simple. As a rule, it is a single DNA molecule, and sometimes a simpler RNA molecule containing genetic information. In addition, the virus also contains a shell of proteins. However, some types of viruses - viroids - may not have it either.

Viruses are able to integrate into the genetic apparatus of cells, and reconfigure it to release their own copies. Without the help of cells from other organisms, viruses cannot reproduce.

Features of the structure of viruses that cause SARS and influenza

Most of the viruses in this group belong to the type of RNA viruses. The only exception is adenovirus, which has a DNA molecule.

Influenza viruses are divided into three main serotypes - A, B, and C. The most common diseases are caused by the first two types. The type C virus only causes illness in immunocompromised people, children, and the elderly. Epidemics of diseases caused by this type of virus do not exist, while epidemics caused by viruses of types A and B occur very often - once every few years in a certain area.

The surface of the RNA molecule of the virus is covered with several protein molecules, among which neuraminidase should be distinguished. This enzyme facilitates the penetration of the virus into the cell and then ensures the exit of new viral particles from it. Influenza viruses primarily infect the epithelial cells that line the surface of the upper respiratory tract.

Of course, the immune system is also not “sitting on its hands”. Immune cells, having detected the presence of strangers, produce special substances - interferons, which suppress the vital activity of viruses and prevent their penetration into cells. In addition, special types of lymphocytes - T-killers and NK-lymphocytes destroy cells affected by viruses.

However, viral diseases, including those caused by influenza viruses, claim many lives each year.

The peculiarity of viruses is their increased ability to change. This leads to the fact that protein molecules on the surface of viruses can change their composition very quickly, and as a result, immune forces are far from always able to recognize them in time as an object that has already been encountered before.

Therefore, scientists have long wanted to develop tools that would be active against various viruses. However, this task faces many difficulties. They consist, first of all, in the fact that viral particles are very small and extremely primitive even in comparison with bacteria. And this means that they have very few vulnerabilities.

However, some antivirals have been developed. In particular, many of them are active against viruses that cause SARS and influenza.

Types of antivirals

Antiviral agents aimed directly at fighting viruses can be divided into four main groups:

• vaccines;
• immunostimulants and interferon inducers;
• preparations containing interferon;
• direct-acting antiviral drugs (etiotropic).

There are many antiviral agents belonging to various groups, and it is not easy to single out the most effective drug among them.

Antiviral vaccines

Vaccination was invented in the late 18th century. Over time, it has become widely used as a prophylactic to combat various diseases, including viral ones.

The essence of vaccination is to give the body's immune system information about the infectious agent in advance. The fact is that the immune system often recognizes the danger too late, when the infection has already spread throughout the body. And if the immune system is set up in advance to fight the desired agent, then it will instantly enter into a fight with it and easily neutralize it.

When vaccinating against viruses, a vaccine is introduced into the blood - a substance containing the protein shells of viruses, or somehow weakened viruses. These components are unable to cause disease, but they are able to train immune cells to deal with strangers. Thus, if real viruses enter the body, then, as a rule, they are neutralized very quickly. Vaccine immunity can last for many years.

As for the flu, there are several types of viruses that cause this disease. Most of them have vaccines.

Vaccines can be of several types. There are vaccines containing live but weakened viruses. There are also vaccines containing inactivated virus components. Usually, one vaccine contains the material of several varieties of viruses, which is regularly updated, in accordance with the mutations that the substances that make up the shells of these infectious agents undergo.

Influenza vaccination, in the first place, should be carried out for people in certain risk groups:

• Age over 65 years;
• Those with respiratory diseases;
• Taking drugs that depress the immune system, cytostatics, corticosteroids;
• Patients with diabetes;
• Children;
• Women in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy.

Unlike the flu, there are currently no vaccines to prevent SARS.

Antivirals that boost immunity

Any virus that enters the body meets with its protective forces - immunity. Human immunity is divided into two types: specific and nonspecific. Specific immunity is developed against a specific type of infectious agents, while non-specific immunity has a universal effect and can be directed against any type of infection. Antiviral drugs based on strengthening immunity use its non-specific variety.

Preparations with interferons

This class of antiviral agents contains interferons, special substances secreted by immune cells to fight viruses. Usually, interferon in such antiviral drugs is obtained artificially with the help of special bacteria. Interferon attaches to cell walls and prevents viruses from entering them. On the other hand, viruses are able to block the production of interferon by cells, which makes it easier for them to penetrate them. Thus, preparations containing interferon are designed to compensate for the lack of natural interferon observed during viral infections.

Information about the effectiveness of antiviral drugs of this class is contradictory. Many people claim that they helped them, although the results of clinical trials do not allow us to speak with confidence about these drugs as an effective remedy. In addition, they tend to have many side effects. Among them, it is worth noting the high probability of allergic reactions.

The list of popular drugs of this type includes Grippferon, Alfaron, Interferon, Viferon, Kipferon.

Viferon

The drug contains interferon type alpha 2b. In the synthesis of this substance, the bacteria of Escherichia coli were used. The preparation also contains vitamins C and E. The preparation can be used as an antiviral medicine. It is active against the causative agents of major respiratory infections, as well as hepatitis and herpes viruses.

Kipferon

The drug for the treatment of influenza and SARS. The medicine is available in the form of suppositories. Contains immunoglobulins and human leukocyte interferon. Fat and paraffin are used as additional components. The drug is active not only against viruses (ARVI, influenza and hepatitis viruses), but also against a number of bacterial infections, in particular chlamydia.

Grippferon

Produced as a solution for nasal use, contains human leukocyte interferon, has immunomodulatory properties. It also contains some excipients. It is intended mainly for the treatment of viral infections of the upper respiratory tract.

Antiviral immunostimulating agents

Unlike interferons, antiviral immunostimulants do not attack viruses directly, but stimulate the immune system to produce its own interferons. These are inexpensive, but quite effective means. The advantage of this type of drugs, compared with drugs containing interferon, is that they are much less likely to cause side effects in the form of allergic reactions. Examples of such drugs are Ingavir, Kagocel, Cycloferon, Lavomax, Tsitovir. Which of them is most effective in ARVI, it is difficult to say unequivocally. All of them differ somewhat in their action and contraindications, and in order to know which one to choose, it is best to seek the advice of a specialist.

The effectiveness of antiviral immunostimulating agents, judging by the reviews, is quite high. However, many people who are keen on such remedies do not think about how often you can drink them. Doctors warn of the harm that uncontrolled use of immune stimulants can lead to. The fact is that with the regular use of stimulants, there is a violation of the functioning of one's own immunity. The body gets used to the stimulation and is unable to respond to the infection on its own, which can cause complications of infectious diseases. The second danger associated with immune stimulants is that immune cells can begin to attack the tissues of their own body, which is the cause of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, lupus erythematosus, and some others.

Tsitovir

Contains bendazol, a substance that stimulates the formation of interferons. Other active substances are ascorbic acid and thymogen, which increase the body's resistance to infection. Available in three main dosage forms - capsules, syrup and powder for solution. It can be used as a medicine that helps against influenza and SARS.

Kagocel

One of the best-selling drugs on the Russian market. Developed in the late 1980s. in Soviet Union. One of the main active ingredients is derived from cotton and is a copolymer of gossypol. Another component is cellulose glycolic acid. The combination of these components leads to increased secretion of interferon by immune cells. It should be noted that pure gossypol is known as a drug that adversely affects male spermatogenesis. And although the developers claim that this substance in its pure form in the preparation contains an insignificant amount, this circumstance makes us wary.

Amiksin

A drug that stimulates the production of various types of interferons - leukocyte (alpha type), gamma, and fibroblast interferon. A powerful tool that is active against various viruses, including viruses that cause SARS, herpes and hepatitis. The drug was developed in the United States about half a century ago, but was soon banned there due to its side effects. In particular, it was found that the main component of the drug is capable of causing damage to the retina. However, in the countries of the former USSR, this drug is actively sold under various brand names.

Cycloferon

Currently, it is one of the most popular drugs on the market from the class of immunostimulants. The active substance is meglumine acridone acetate. The drug can be administered into the body parenterally, as well as taken in the form of tablets. Judging by the reviews, the drug has a high effect. However, it is interesting to note that the main active ingredient was originally used in veterinary medicine. But already a few years after the start of its use in this capacity, the drug was registered as a drug for the treatment of infectious diseases in humans. At the same time, manufacturers recommend using the drug even for the treatment of children from 4 years old.

Antiviral etiotropic drugs (drugs of direct action)

This type of drugs acts directly on influenza or SARS viruses. In this case, mechanisms can be used that impede the replication of the virus, or its penetration into cells. Some drugs can also have a mild stimulating effect on the immune system.

amantadines

These are first-generation antiviral etiotropic drugs, otherwise called M2-channel blockers. The mechanism of their action is based on the disruption of the work of certain enzymes that ensure the reproduction of the virus in the cell. The main drugs of the class are deutiforin, amantadine, midantan and rimantadine. Amantadines are also effective against some other types of viruses, such as adenoviruses and herpes viruses.

Remantadin

One of the first representatives of the group of direct-acting antiviral drugs. At the time of its introduction (early 1960s), it seemed like a real breakthrough in the fight against influenza. The drug has shown its effectiveness in many clinical trials.

The drug was developed in the USA, but in the Soviet Union, the pharmaceutical industry also quickly launched the production of this drug. With its help, it was possible to significantly reduce the time spent on treating patients with influenza, which resulted in significant savings on the scale of the Soviet economy.

However, it soon became clear that influenza viruses quickly developed resistance to this drug and mutated in such a way that they became practically invulnerable to it. Recent studies show that more than 90% of influenza viruses are resistant to rimantadine, which makes it practically useless in the treatment of this disease.

In addition, the drug was initially active only against type A influenza virus and did not affect type B viruses. Thus, rimantadine in terms of the treatment of influenza today is more of historical interest. However, this medicine cannot be called completely useless, since it turned out that it is effective against the tick-borne encephalitis virus.

Remantadine is available in two main dosage forms - 50 mg tablets and syrup. The standard duration of treatment is 5 days, under certain conditions this time can be extended up to two weeks.

Neuramidase inhibitors

These are more modern and effective direct-acting antiviral drugs. Their antiviral mechanism is based on blocking the enzyme, due to which the virus leaves the infected cell and also penetrates into healthy cells. Since the virus cannot enter the cell, it is easily destroyed by the immune forces of the body. To date, drugs of this group are most often used among direct-acting viral etiotropic drugs intended to combat influenza.

The main members of the class are oseltamivir, marketed under the brand name Tamiflu, and the drug Relenza (zanamivir). There is also a new generation drug - Peramivir (Rapivab), which has shown high efficiency in uncomplicated influenza. This drug is intended primarily for parenteral administration.

However, it should be noted that the drugs of this group have a number of disadvantages. In the case of mild, uncomplicated influenza, their effectiveness is usually relatively low, but the number of side effects is quite large. Neuramidiase inhibitors are also quite toxic. The frequency of side effects when taking them is 1.5%. Medicines are prescribed with caution to patients with a tendency to bronchospasm. In addition, they cannot be attributed to cheap drugs.

Tamiflu

This drug was developed in the USA in the late 1980s. Initially, it was planned to be used in the fight against the AIDS virus, but then it turned out that oseltamivir was not dangerous for this virus. However, instead, it was found that the drug is active against pathogens of influenza types A and B. The drug is most effective in severe forms of influenza due to its ability to suppress the formation of cytokines and prevent inflammation and an excessive immune response in the form of a cytokine storm. To date, this remedy, perhaps, tops the rating in terms of effectiveness among other etiotropic drugs.

When choosing a dosage, the patient's condition, the nature of the disease, the presence of chronic diseases should be taken into account. The standard duration of the course of treatment is 5 days, the dosage is 75-150 mg.

However, it is worth noting that the drug does not act against ARVI pathogens. In addition, an overdose of the drug and its uncontrolled use, including for preventive purposes, can lead to very serious health consequences, for example, to mental disorders.

Relenza

Like Tamiflu, it belongs to the group of neuramidase inhibitors. It is an effective antiviral drug, a structural analogue of sialic acid. Unlike oseltamivir, this flu medicine is not available in tablets, but in special blisters intended for use in an inhaler - a diskhaler. This method allows you to deliver the drug directly to the respiratory tract affected by the virus and ensure the most effective effect of the drug on the infectious agent.

Arbidol

A domestic drug that was developed back in the 1980s. The active substance is umifenovir. Unlike neuraminidase inhibitors, the action of umifenovir is aimed at inhibiting another viral protein, hemagglutinin. However, this method also prevents the penetration of the virus into the cells. In addition, the drug is able to provide moderate stimulation of the body's immune forces. Arbidol can also treat not only the flu, but also SARS. In Belarus, a structural analogue of this drug is produced - Arpetol.

Reviews about the drug are mostly positive. However, the fact that the only serious study of the effectiveness of the drug was sponsored by its own manufacturer, Pharmstandard, cannot but be alarming. Therefore, today Arbidol cannot be unequivocally attributed to drugs with proven effectiveness.

Rebetol

This drug is not designed to fight influenza viruses, but to fight other viruses, such as rhinosincitial virus. Most often, this infection occurs in children, in whom it occurs in a complex form. However, it can also be used as an anti-influenza agent, although with less effect. In addition, the drug can be used in the treatment of herpes. With ARVI, the drug is injected into the focus of inflammation by inhalation. Other drug names are Virazole and Ribavirin. The drug is contraindicated in pregnancy.

Symptomatic drugs

Contrary to popular belief, these drugs are not antiviral drugs. They are intended only to relieve the unpleasant symptoms of influenza and SARS - pain and fever. However, this does not negate the fact that symptomatic medicines are a good remedy for colds. They usually contain anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs - paracetamol, acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen, sometimes antioxidants - ascorbic acid, less often - antihistamines and vasoconstrictors, such as phenylephinephrine. Thus, they have no effect on influenza or SARS viruses. Although the names of many of these drugs can mislead an inexperienced person. For example, the symptomatic drug Theraflu can be confused with the etiotropic drug Tamiflu.

There are also combined preparations, including etiotropic agents and symptomatic ones - for example, Anvivir containing rimantadine and paracetamol.

It should be noted that the simultaneous appointment of interferon inducers and antipyretics, which is practiced by some doctors, does not make much sense. Indeed, with an increase in temperature, on the contrary, there is an increase in the production of interferon, and an artificial decrease in temperature nullifies this process.

homeopathic remedies

It is worth noting such a type of drugs as homeopathic remedies for the treatment of viral diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Around homeopathy there are fierce disputes, it has both supporters and opponents. However, it is indisputable that almost all homeopathic preparations do not directly affect viruses, and therefore it is very difficult to classify them as antiviral. For example, such a popular French anti-flu drug as Oscillococcinum contains liver components from Muscovy duck as an active ingredient. In this case, it is not at all clear on what basis such a component was classified as an effective remedy for flu and colds. Nevertheless, the drug is actively sold and enjoys traditional popularity, including in our country. Needless to say, drugs of this kind are an obvious example of the use of the autosuggestion effect inherent in people (the placebo effect) by clever businessmen.

Antiviral drugs for influenza and SARS - benefit or harm?

In our country, the number of cases of respiratory diseases is especially high, given the cold climate, long winter and off-season. All this creates a demand for drugs for colds and flu. Of course, pharmaceutical manufacturers cannot ignore such a potentially huge market. And they fill it with drugs of sometimes dubious quality and dubious effectiveness, promoting them with the help of aggressive advertising, claiming that the best drug today is this particular remedy and no other. At present, a person who comes to a pharmacy, as a rule, has no difficulty in choosing antiviral agents. There are a lot of them, for every taste, and among them there are many drugs that are affordable. But, as you know, free cheese is only in a mousetrap.

As shown above, ideal antiviral drugs do not exist. Interferon preparations have many side effects, and of this kind, which may appear after a long time. Now more and more information is accumulating that their regular use increases the risk of autoimmune diseases - lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's syndrome, psoriasis, insulin-dependent diabetes and even cancer. Particular care should be taken by those patients who have relatives suffering from autoimmune diseases. Also, drugs of this type should be used with caution in the treatment of children.

Interferon preparations, in addition, can cause severe allergic reactions. In addition, their effectiveness is highly questionable. In principle, the same can be said about antiviral immunostimulants. It is worth noting that in most Western countries such drugs are practically not used. The concept of treatment of respiratory diseases widespread there recognizes only etiotropic or symptomatic treatment, and antiviral immunomodulators are prescribed to patients only in exceptional cases.

As for etiotropic drugs, they also cannot be called an ideal choice. Although they have a much greater evidence base, nevertheless, their effectiveness is often greatly exaggerated due to advertising from manufacturers. In addition, such old drugs as rimantadine have already lost a significant portion of their effectiveness due to the formation of a huge number of strains of viruses resistant to their action.

Neuramidase inhibitors appear to be most effective. However, at the same time, they have high toxicity and a limited spectrum of action, covering only influenza viruses. Therefore, given that they are most effective in the first days after the onset of the disease, they can only be used when there is complete certainty that the disease is caused by the influenza virus, and not by something else. And needless to say, it is usually not possible to determine the type of pathogen at the beginning of the disease. Otherwise, the use of these drugs will simply be a waste of money. By the way, this type of drugs is by no means cheap.

The only way to fight viral infections with antiviral drugs that has a minimum of side effects is vaccination. However, it cannot be considered a panacea. It has some limitations, since there are so many strains of influenza and it is absolutely impossible to come up with a vaccine that would be effective against everyone. To some extent, however, this is offset by the fact that the biological material contained in vaccines is constantly updated.

Therefore, one should consider whether it is worth using this kind of treatment at all, which can bring more problems than the disease itself. It should be noted that most people underestimate the power of their own immunity. Compliance with simple rules - bed rest, plenty of warm drinks, taking vitamins and a proper diet in most cases put a person on his feet in about the same time as treatment with newfangled antiviral drugs. Their use may still be justified in case of influenza with a high temperature, but the use of the same immunomodulators in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections is generally not recommended.

Also, do not abuse the reception of symptomatic drugs. After all, the same high temperature is a protective reaction of the body to the invasion of viruses and bacteria. At high temperatures, the production of interferons increases, making the cells of the body immune to viral infection. By lowering the temperature artificially, we actually forbid the body to fight infection. Therefore, you should not bring down the temperature, at least if it does not pass the critical mark of +39º degrees.

The situation is further complicated by the peculiarities of our mentality. It is no secret that many people, faced with acute respiratory infections and influenza, do not seek to be cured, but simply to quickly return to their normal lives, go to work, etc. This not only leads to the fact that all the surrounding people become infected, but also to the fact that as a result a person does not cure the disease, which becomes chronic. A cold carried on the legs has a much more harmful effect on the body than refusing to take antiviral drugs.

However, most people understand that such behavior is not correct, but they resort to another, seemingly more correct means - swallowing packs of anti-virus agents. And at the same time, it seems to be really getting better, but at the same time it destroys your body. Meanwhile, it is worth considering that health is much more expensive than a couple of extra days spent on sick leave.

Of course, these tips are suitable for people with a healthy immune system. However, not everyone can boast of it. Now there are many people whose immunity is weakened. Their disease can be delayed, which ultimately threatens with various complications. In this case, taking antiviral pills is justified. However, the fact of having a weakened immune system should not be established on the basis of individual feelings - I have a runny nose every month, which means I need to buy drugs with interferons or immunomodulators, but on the basis of thorough studies of the state of the immune system. The selection of antiviral drugs should also be careful. Which one is best suited in a particular case, the doctor should tell. It is necessary to use the drug in accordance with its recommendations and instructions.

And, of course, treatment with these drugs should not be taken as natural. Once cured with antiviral drugs, you should not rely on the fact that the next time miraculous drugs will help get rid of the disease. Measures should be taken to strengthen the immune system. There are many natural ways to do this - hardening, regular walks in the fresh air, proper nutrition and daily routine, good rest, physical education and sports.

Also, measures aimed at preventing diseases should not be ignored. It should be borne in mind that influenza and ARVI viruses are quite resistant to adverse factors and can exist in the external environment for a long time. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly carry out hygiene procedures, especially during a period of increased morbidity - wash your hands after coming from the street, regularly rinse your mouth and rinse the nasal cavity, and avoid communicating with patients with respiratory diseases. Chronic diseases should also be treated in a timely manner, since it is well known that viruses multiply most intensively in an organism weakened by the fight against chronic diseases. And, of course, it is worth getting rid of bad habits. After all, it is well known that smoking significantly weakens the immune forces of the tissues of the upper respiratory tract, which leads to increased vulnerability to infectious diseases, including viral ones.

It should also be taken into account that it is necessary to start antiviral drug therapy as early as possible, at the first signs of the disease. Otherwise, the treatment will not be effective.

In addition, before starting treatment with antiviral drugs, you should make sure that the respiratory disease is really caused by viruses and not bacteria. Otherwise, antiviral therapy will be completely useless.

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Colds and flu have a short incubation period and manifest themselves already in the first or second day after pathogenic pathogens enter the human body. Treatment of this condition includes the use of various antiviral agents, which can be produced in different forms. In this case, it is imperative to carry out the therapy of the accompanying symptoms of the disease, as this will allow the virus to be eliminated from the body much faster and prevent it from causing complications. Before using any of the above remedies, you should read the detailed instructions for the medication, as it often contains serious contraindications for use.

AntiGrippin

Complex remedies help to eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of influenza and SARS, maintain efficiency, but often contain phenylephrine, a substance that increases blood pressure, which gives a feeling of cheerfulness, but can cause side effects from the cardiovascular system. Therefore, in some cases it is better to choose a drug without components of this kind, for example, AntiGrippin from Natur Product, which helps to alleviate the unpleasant symptoms of SARS without provoking an increase in pressure.

There are contraindications. Need to consult a specialist

Theraflu

The drug is produced in two pharmacological forms - tablets and powders. The second form of the drug shows a quick and effective result after the first application. For treatment, it is recommended to use one sachet per 100-150 ml of pure boiled water, it is allowed to add sugar to the solution and drink Theraflu as a tea drink. For a day, an adult patient is allowed to take 2-3 sachets of the drug. Treatment can last for a week as part of combination therapy.

Coldrex

Anti-cold complex, similar in its effect to Theraflu. More than 60% of patients help after the first dose of the drug, reducing the intensity of the manifestation of headaches, raising the immune system. The powder is taken along with boiled hot water. One sachet is taken per 100 ml of liquid. During the day, you can drink no more than 3 bags of Coldrex, so as not to reduce the function of the kidneys and liver. Powder can be treated for 5 days, in some cases it is allowed to extend therapy up to one week.

Fervex

It has several flavors, it is also allowed to use the powder as a tea drink for colds, adding a small amount of sugar or sweetener to it. One sachet of Fervex per 150 ml of hot water is taken as one. No more than three sachets are taken per day, therapy lasts 5 days, in severe or complicated cases 7 days. If Fervex is taken to lower high fever with flu and colds, the course of treatment should be reduced to 3 days.

Attention! Powder forms of the drug often cannot be used in childhood and in the presence of kidney problems. It should also be borne in mind that they contain means to lower the temperature, so the doses of antipyretics should be adjusted.

Anti-cold medicines in the form of tablets

Kagocel

An effective medicine to suppress the activity of the virus that causes colds and flu. To eliminate the symptoms of the disease, it is required to undergo a course of therapy, including 18 doses of the active substance. On the first and second days, two tablets are prescribed 20 minutes before the main meal three times a day. From the 3rd day, you should drink one dose of Kagocel also 20-30 minutes before the main meal in the morning, afternoon and evening, until a dose of 18 tablets is reached.

Ergoferon

The drug also shows good efficacy in the treatment of colds in adult patients. For a quick recovery, you should take 4 tablets every 30 minutes in the first two hours. After that, three doses of Ergoferon are taken every 4-6 hours. In the following days, treatment continues with one dose of medication with each meal. Therapy continues until the patient is fully recovered. In some cases, it is recommended to take Ergoferon for six months, one tablet for another six months, if the flu gave complications to the lungs.

Oscillococcinum

Oscillococcinum is an effective remedy for suppressing flu and colds.

An expensive but effective remedy for suppressing flu and colds. Refers to homeopathic remedies. Small dragees dissolve before use in water or simply eaten by the patient. For a quick recovery, you should take 1 dose of medication for a mild cold and one dose of medication in the morning and evening for a cold. The duration of therapy is from 1 to 5 days.

Attention! Some experts are categorically against the use of such medicines, believing that they can significantly inhibit the body's natural protective functions. With regular use, the drug becomes completely useless.

Antiviral drops and sprays for colds and flu

Aflubin

The drug has a general strengthening effect on the entire body, heals it and eliminates the virus from the body. Adult patients should take 10 drops of the active substance up to 8 times a day if the condition is complicated by high fever and severe sore throat. If the cold is less intense, Aflubin should be taken no more than 4 times. Therapy continues for 5-10 days.

Nazoferon

A drug that is available in the form of drops for intranasal use. To obtain the desired result, the patient should do one injection in each nasal sinus up to five times a day. Therapy continues individually for each patient, usually it is 5-10 days. When using Nazoferon, dryness of the nasal mucosa may be observed.

Cold medicine capsules

Avirol

Avirol is a stimulant that can significantly strengthen the immune system during a respiratory illness.

A good stimulant that can significantly strengthen the immune system during a respiratory illness. Patients are advised to take 1 capsule of Avirol daily, regardless of food intake. The medication is taken for 14 days, after which it is completely canceled.

Amizon Max

A rather strong effect of a drug that allows you to eliminate the manifestation of colds and flu in 5-7 days. The medication is taken one hour before meals. Taking into account the severity of the patient's condition, he is recommended to take 1 capsule from 2 to 4 times a day. Sometimes Amizon Max provoked a severe intestinal upset.

Attention! Usually, cold medicines are not combined with antibiotics, regardless of the form of antivirals. This is because flu and colds are not caused by bacteria.

Cold medicines for children

Antiflu Kids

The instruction officially allows the use of the drug in children from 6 years of age. In an earlier period, the use of Antiflu is allowed only with the permission of the pediatrician after consultation with the attending physician. Available in the form of a syrup with a pleasant taste, it is also allowed to use powder. The syrup is prescribed in strictly individual doses, taking into account the weight of the baby, the powder is drunk one sachet per 100 ml no more than 4 times a day. Two days later, with positive dynamics, the amount of Antiflu Kids is reduced to 2 sachets. Therapy lasts no more than 5 days.

The drug is available in the form of effervescent tablets for dissolution in water. Used from the age of three. For colds, children under five years of age take 0.5 tablets per half glass of water, after 5 years the dosage is doubled. For a day, you can take no more than 3-4 doses recommended by age. Treatment with Antigrippin can be continued for no more than 5 days, without medical supervision for no more than 3 days.

Anaferon for children

It perfectly fights the flu and colds, eliminating the manifestations of the virus from the human body. Children Anaferon can be taken in the first year of life. After the onset of cold or flu symptoms, the child is given 1 tablet every 30 minutes every 2 hours. After that, on the first day, you need to drink three more doses of medication at regular intervals. After that, 5-10 days Anaferon for children is taken one dose 30 minutes before the main meal three times a day. The drug is not taken in the presence of any autoimmune diseases, as this can cause their sharp exacerbation.

Attention! It is necessary to use any cold medicines in childhood only with the permission of the attending physician, as they can cause acute allergic reactions.

Video - Antiviral and immunomodulatory drugs

When should you see a doctor for colds and flu?

When eliminating the symptoms of flu and colds, it is important not only to take antiviral drugs, but also to carefully monitor your own condition. You can not do without medical help in the following situations:

• it is not possible to bring down the high temperature during the day or it continues to grow;
• the patient has confusion, pain in the upper back or sternum;
• taking antiviral agents does not give a noticeable result within 1-2 days;
• severe pain in the lumbar region was noted, problems with urination appeared;
• vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash all over the body;
• breathing became heavy and short;
• sore throat passed into the stage of acute pain, purulent discharge from the throat and nasal cavity was noted.

Attention! In children and pregnant women, the condition with colds and flu can worsen in just a few hours, so the patient should be monitored every few minutes.. Also, you can not take only anti-cold medicines, you definitely need funds to eliminate other symptoms of the disease in the form of a runny nose and high fever.

Additional remedies for the treatment of flu and colds

Attention! These drugs will significantly support the patient's body, while eliminating such accompanying symptoms as headache, runny nose and sore throat. The dosages of these medicinal products are for adults.

Video - Treatment of influenza, SARS and colds

Powerful folk remedy for flu and colds

garlic milk

A very unpleasant tasting remedy, but it allows you to get a quick effect in just 1-2 days of treatment. When preparing the medicine, you should take only fresh real cow's milk, you can use goat's milk. For 200 ml of liquid, which should be brought to a boil, three cloves of garlic are added, it should be chopped. Also, 10 g of natural butter must be added to milk. After thoroughly mixing the products, they should be drunk in slow sips. Use this treatment should be 20 minutes before bedtime. At the same time, a sore throat and cough are cured along with flu and colds. Treatment lasts until complete recovery.

Video - 7 effective rules for a speedy recovery

Warming up the heels

A fairly effective procedure that can be done provided there are no complications with the lungs and high temperature. It should be treated in this way at bedtime until complete recovery. Having slightly steamed out the legs, they should be smeared with dry mustard. It is prepared at the rate of a tablespoon of powder per 50 ml of warm water. The heels are lubricated with the product and warm socks are put on. After that, you should immediately go to bed. In the morning, the feet are washed with clean water. Instead of mustard, owners of sensitive skin can use an iodine mesh. The procedure is also carried out before going to bed.

The most effective medicine

For 1500 ml of boiled water, take a teaspoon of coarse sea salt. After its dissolution, the juice of one large lemon and 1 g of pharmacy ascorbic acid are added to the liquid. Once again, gently mix all the components of the drug. This amount of water should be drunk 2-3 hours before going to bed. In this case, usually one procedure is enough for the treatment of the patient. When using this method, you should make sure that the kidneys are in full health.

Attention! In some cases, when treatment was started immediately after the onset of cold symptoms, traditional medicines showed a more powerful result than traditional antivirals.

The treatment of flu and colds is always a laborious process, which should include the use of several drugs at once. Most experts insist that the treatment of such diseases cannot take place without additional consultation with the attending physician, since the disease progresses rapidly and can go into the stage of pneumonia. During treatment, be sure to adhere to the recommended doses and the prescribed course of therapy. read on our website.

During the annual cold and flu epidemics, the problem of choosing a good drug for these diseases is especially acute. Manufacturers vying with each other offer effective medicines against colds and flu, and it is very difficult to deal with such a variety, but it is possible to single out the main, most effective medicines. Proper first aid for colds and flu is an important start in the treatment of the disease.

If you decide to buy some drug, a drug not on the recommendation of a doctor, but on your own, you should take into account that each drug has certain indications and contraindications for use, acts on one or another symptom of colds and flu, or eliminates the immediate cause of the disease.

Surely you have already heard that with ARVI and influenza of mild to moderate severity, such a wonderful drug as Oscillococcinum can help. It strengthens and restores health.

However, in order for Oscillococcinum to bring maximum benefit to your body, it is necessary. Remember: any drug helps only when used correctly, so do not be lazy.

How to choose an inexpensive, but high-quality and effective cold medicine on your own, and what should you know about modern medicines for colds and flu? How to distinguish the flu from a cold? Not everyone knows about this. First of all, you should find out what is called the flu and what is called a cold. Now let's figure it out.

Flu and colds - the main differences

Influenza is a viral infection of the body. It progresses rapidly in the body. It can be infected because it is transmitted through the air. Usually during the cold season, the spread of various forms of influenza increases, epidemics occur.

The main symptoms of the flu:

1. The first sign that a person has the flu is a high body temperature. It can rise to 39 or 40 degrees. A high temperature indicates that the body has been infected with a virus.
2. As a rule, the patient begins to hurt muscles and break bones.
3. The person becomes debilitated.

The body fights the virus, so the body temperature rises. But the general condition of the patient is greatly deteriorating. He cannot get out of bed. The flu may be accompanied by headache, dryness and. This disease has similar symptoms to the common cold. In order to know how to distinguish the flu from a cold, you should remember that the first illness can be different. What virus the human body is infected with, such symptoms of the disease will be visible. For example, there are cases when only one sign appears. For example, it may be elevated body temperature. It can last for several days without showing other symptoms. And in some cases, the whole set of complications is present.

The main symptoms of a cold:

A cold is a disease of the body associated with hypothermia.. It usually heals easily. But with advanced forms, it can go into other more serious diseases. That is, the flu manifests itself sharply in the human body, and a cold usually begins with a slight malaise.

1. Damage to the nasal mucosa. The person begins to sneeze, a runny nose and swelling appear.
2. Happens with a cold. In the respiratory tract, sputum and mucus appear.
3. When a person has a cold, the body temperature rises to 38 degrees and above. This is a normal reaction of the immune system to infections that have affected the body.

A cold usually starts with a slight runny nose. Then the temperature rises, then the cough begins. All processes occur gradually. The cough is usually present for a couple of days. Then all symptoms go away. As a rule, after a week a person is fully restored and returns to a normal lifestyle. Here's how to tell the flu from a cold.

First aid for flu - do not interfere with your immunity

In the early days of the onset of flu and cold symptoms, it is best to do the following:

• Drink Vitamin C, immediately 5 tablets, then 2 during the illness
• Take 1-2 tablets which stimulate the processes of immunity;
• Drink before bed vitamin sedative infusion: 100 g of red wine, strong black tea, jam with mixed and taken orally. Warm socks should be on the feet.
• Warm foot bath after which put on warm socks with mustard and go to bed.
• Peace is a rash. It is recommended to stay at home for at least 5 days. If the disease is not carried in bed, then chronic diseases can develop.
• Avoid stressful situations.
• Frequent use of warm liquids. Preferably fruit drinks, vitamin teas. An acidic environment adversely affects harmful microorganisms.
• Food should be easy to digest but at the same time nutritious.

Take care of your health! Strengthen your immunity!

Immunomodulators for flu and colds

In medical practice, it is customary to use immunostimulating agents only in the case of severe infections, when the body itself is not able to cope with the cause of the disease or inflammation. In epidemics of influenza and ARVI, immunomodulators are indicated as a prophylactic.

Note! Self-administration of immunomodulators without a doctor's prescription during the acute phase of the disease will be useless, and in the worst case, it will cause serious complications in the body.

3 popular immunomodulatory drugs:

• (price - 300-550 rubles). In addition to the antiviral effect in influenza, it has an immunomodulatory effect. Reduces the symptoms of colds and inflammation, increases resistance to viral infections.
• (price - 190-300 rubles). It has a complex effect: it destroys viruses and at the same time strengthens the immune system. Effective for the treatment and prevention of colds and flu. Of the side infections, minor allergic reactions were noted.
• Tiloron(from 680 rubles). The new antiviral agent has a detrimental effect on the cells of the virus, disrupting their reproduction, and also enhances the body's immune defenses. The medicine is used in the treatment of any respiratory viral infections.

Interferons for flu and colds

Medicines act on the basis of interferon inducers - they stimulate the production of certain types in the human body that help suppress the infectious agents of the influenza and cold viruses.

The most effective and not expensive cold and flu remedies:

• Amiksin(from 600 rubles) - a powerful tool for raising immunity and in the fight against viruses. It is non-toxic and well tolerated by patients. Contraindicated in children under 7 years of age and pregnant women.
• Viferon(250-800 rubles) - is produced in the form of candles, for this reason it is often prescribed to children, starting from the first year of life. The medicine is well tolerated and has few contraindications. Effective for flu and viral colds.
• (from 180 rubles). Effective in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, and influenza, is available in the form of an ointment, injection, tablets. Approved for admission from the age of four. Of the side effects, only minor allergic reactions were noted.
• and (from 200 rubles). Tablets with immunostimulating and antiviral effect. Reduce the risk of complications, quickly eliminate the symptoms of flu and colds. Not recommended for pregnant and lactating women.
• Inferon and