A Pill to Prevent the Flu

Prevent the flu or shorten its duration with the help of modern medicine.

From Reader's Digest

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You never got around to getting your flu vaccine, and now you're worried you'll become sick, since several of your co-workers have succumbed.

Luckily, your doctor can prescribe a pill that could prevent the flu from developing. Tamiflu, an antiviral drug, is FDA-approved to prevent and treat the flu. And GlaxoSmithKline, maker of the antiviral Relenza, is seeking FDA approval for preventive use of that drug.

Already got the flu? No problem. When taken within the first 48 hours, these drugs can shorten the length of illness and reduce symptoms and complications. They may also help protect against avian flu, but more research is needed. For most of us, the drugs are not meant to replace a vaccine, says Neil Schachter, MD, author of The Good Doctor's Guide to Colds & Flu, since they're costly and have possible side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

From Reader's Digest - January 2006

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A Pill to Prevent the Flu

Prevent the flu or shorten its duration with the help of modern medicine.

From Reader's Digest - January 2006

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