Treating Flu Without the Vaccine

Posting Date: 10/07/2004

By now you know that it's likely there will not be enough flu vaccine to go around. It's important that only those for whom public agencies recommend the vaccine seek it out so there will be enough for them. Does that mean there is nothing you can do. You should know that there are four prescription drugs currently approved for treating the flu. The problem is that you have to take them at the first signs of the disease. Of course if you call your doctor at that time and make an appointment it's likely to be in the middle of flu season and by time you get in to the doctor and get a prescription it will be too late. So the best advice is to ask your doctor for a presciption to keep in the medicine cabinet in case. If you feel the flu coming on you should call the doctor to advise whether to take these drugs. Many people who think they are coming down with the flu are not. Many other viruses feel like the flu but are not. The four drugs are amantidine, rimantadine, Relenz and Tamiflu. Each has its advantages and disadvantages so talk with your medical care provider. In case you want to review more information go to www.niaid.nih.gov/factsheets/fludrugs.htm

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