From the Guidelines
To recover quickly from influenza, it is essential to focus on rest, hydration, and appropriate medication, with antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) being most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset, as recommended by the most recent and highest quality study 1. When experiencing flu symptoms, it is crucial to stay home and get plenty of sleep to allow the body to fight the infection. Drinking clear fluids like water, broth, and electrolyte solutions can help prevent dehydration. Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can reduce fever and relieve body aches, following package dosing instructions. Some key points to consider for recovery include:
- Using a humidifier to ease congestion and soothe irritated nasal passages
- Gargling with salt water (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of warm water) to relieve sore throat
- Eating light, nutritious foods when tolerated
- Considering antiviral treatment for high-risk individuals, such as those with severe, complicated, or progressive illness, or those at higher risk for influenza complications due to age or underlying medical conditions, as recommended by 1 and 1 The flu typically lasts 5-7 days, with symptoms gradually improving. These measures work by supporting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and managing symptoms while the body clears the viral infection. If symptoms worsen significantly, or if difficulty breathing, chest pain, or persistent high fever develops, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately, as advised by 1 and 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The primary endpoint, time to alleviation of symptoms, was defined as the number of hours from initiation of study drug until the start of the 24-hour period in which all 7 symptoms of influenza (cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, headache, feverishness, myalgia, and fatigue) were either absent or present at a level no greater than mild for at least 21. 5 hours. Overall, subjects receiving RAPIVAB 600 mg experienced alleviation of their combined influenza symptoms a median of 21 hours sooner than those receiving placebo. The median time to recovery to normal temperature (<37°C) in the 600 mg group was approximately 12 hours sooner compared to placebo
The best methods to recover quickly from influenza (flu) include:
- Receiving peramivir (RAPIVAB) 600 mg intravenously, which has been shown to alleviate symptoms a median of 21 hours sooner than placebo
- Taking fever-reducing medications, which were allowed in the studies Note that the study results are based on the use of peramivir in patients with acute uncomplicated influenza, and the efficacy of peramivir in patients with serious influenza requiring hospitalization could not be established 2
From the Research
Methods to Recover Quickly from Influenza
The following methods can help recover quickly from influenza:
- Treatment with neuraminidase inhibitors such as zanamivir 3, 4 and oseltamivir 5, 6 can reduce the duration of symptomatic illness and hasten the return to normal activities
- Zanamivir can reduce the median time to alleviation of major influenza symptoms by up to 2.5 days compared with placebo 3, 4
- Oseltamivir can reduce the duration of the disease by up to 1.5 days and the severity of illness by up to 38% compared with placebo when initiated within 36 hours of symptom onset 5
- Oseltamivir treatment can also reduce virus shedding in people with uncomplicated influenza infections, even when treatment is started 48 hours or longer after illness onset 6
- Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for all people six months and older who do not have contraindications, as it remains the best means of influenza prevention 7
Timing of Treatment
The timing of treatment is crucial in recovering quickly from influenza:
- Treatment with zanamivir and oseltamivir should be started within 48 hours of symptom onset for optimal efficacy 3, 5, 4, 6
- The benefit of treatment is greatest when antiviral therapy is started within 24 hours of symptom onset 7
Additional Considerations
Additional considerations for recovering quickly from influenza include:
- Rest and hydration to help the body recover from the infection
- Over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers and decongestants to help alleviate symptoms
- Avoiding contact with others to prevent the spread of the infection
- Seeking medical attention if symptoms worsen or if there are concerns about complications 7