Curing a cold can sometimes be downright difficult, especially during the epidemic season, when everyone around you is sick. This unpleasant pathology is accompanied by nasal congestion, the throat and head begin to hurt, the temperature rises, and performance is lost. Fortunately, citizens who do not want to get sick can choose the most suitable option from a wide pharmacy range - recently a lot of drugs for colds and flu have been produced. By successfully choosing a remedy and taking it in a timely manner, you can quickly eliminate the unpleasant manifestations of the disease. Due to their widespread use, anti-cold products are relatively inexpensive. However, for lovers of natural approaches there are many folk recipes - they are even cheaper than pharmaceutical drugs, but are completely safe.

Sore throat: first aid

The simplest and cheapest option, known to the general public and telling how to treat a cold, is to use a solution of salt and soda. This home remedy is effective when your throat just starts to hurt. Having noticed the primary symptoms, it is necessary to dilute the substance in water and rinse your mouth regularly. Calendula and eucalyptus in the form of a tincture will also bring benefits - take a glass of heated, but not too hot water for one tablespoon of the composition. The regularity of procedures is once every couple of hours until the symptom exhausts itself.

For people who prefer pharmaceutical medications, we can recommend Septefril. For a package containing a dozen capsules, pharmacies charge a little more than 20 rubles. This drug for colds and flu is an antiseptic, has a broad effect, therefore it is used for pharyngitis, stomatitis, and can provide significant assistance to patients with candidiasis. It is prescribed even for sore throat. Tablets are used up to six times per day. For maximum effect, you need to keep them in your mouth until the product dissolves. It is allowed to combine Septefril and antimicrobial drugs, as it enhances their effectiveness. True, in each specific case you should check with your doctor whether this is worth doing.

Eucalyptus for sore throat

When figuring out how to treat a cold, you should pay attention to Chlorophyllipt. This drug is made from eucalyptus, and its main active component is chlorophyll extracted from this plant. The remedy shows the most striking effect in the treatment of staphylococcal invasion. It is prescribed for the treatment of sore throat and tonsillitis. It is rare that a course of treatment for pharyngitis can be done without Chlorophyllipt.

This cold medicine for children and adults is on sale in the form of an alcohol-based solution. An alternative is a somewhat oily substance. You can buy "Chlorophyllipt" in tablet form. Any of the options works quickly, eliminating severe sore throat. If purulent plugs are detected on the tonsils, a course of treatment with this remedy helps to quickly get rid of them. The alcohol solution is suitable for regular rinsing, and the oil is designed for nasal administration by drops. The product quickly and effectively eliminates swelling.

What else should I try?

Among others, Streptocide cold tablets have proven themselves well. The product is also sold as a powder. The medicine has one serious drawback - a pronounced bitter taste. Doctors usually recommend taking it mixed with honey. However, the unpleasant taste sensations are offset by the quick effect of taking it.

Another widely used cold medicine is Miramistin. It is sold as a solution. It is more often used for sore throat caused by bacterial invasion or viral infection, but it shows no worse results for laryngitis. "Miramistin" can be successfully used in the treatment of tonsillitis and pharyngitis. The drug belongs to the group of antiseptics and shows good results in infectious, bacterial, and fungal diseases. In addition to the solution used to gargle, it is available in tablets and aerosols.

I can not breathe!

Modern, inexpensive cold medications will help not only overcome a sore throat, but also quickly relieve the unpleasant symptoms of nasal congestion. Most often, doctors advise trying Sanorin. It is inexpensive, has been used for a long time and has proven itself to be a reliable, effective medicinal composition with a wide spectrum of action. It is used for a runny nose, regardless of what exactly provoked the unpleasant syndrome. The product constricts blood vessels, relieves swelling and makes breathing easier. True, you can use it for no longer than a week - after that, addiction begins. Long-term use of Sanorin is especially dangerous for people with chronic rhinitis. Do not use the medicine if your blood pressure is higher than normal.

Another effective cold medicine that eliminates a runny nose is called Pinosol. It belongs to the group of combined remedies. Active ingredients are natural oils extracted from eucalyptus, mint, and pine. The product fights microbes and inhibits inflammatory processes, activates blood flow in the nasal mucosa. In some cases, the doctor may recommend using Pinosol even during pregnancy, since the drug belongs to the category of especially safe for the human body.

Alternative options

When choosing a drug for colds, you should pay attention to Naphthyzin. This medication has proven itself well as it constricts blood vessels. It has a long lasting, bright effect. Approved for use in seven-day courses, but not longer. Otherwise, there is a high probability of addiction.

Among the best cold medicines is Galazolin, made with xylometazoline. When used correctly, swelling subsides and hyperemia of the nasal mucosa can be quickly eliminated. Quite quickly the patient can breathe normally, without difficulty. The product is intended for use in a course of no more than five days. You should not contact him if tachycardia is detected or it is determined that rhinitis is of an atrophic nature.

Natural and safe

When choosing what to take for a cold to get rid of a runny nose, you should pay attention to essential oils. The most useful are those extracted from mint and eucalyptus. The product is very simple to use - just lightly lubricate the nasal passages. It is very important to choose the oil and not the infusion, which can cause a drying effect and provoke a worsening of the situation.

If you have a very severe runny nose, you can try rinsing. To do this, take a teaspoon of ordinary table salt into a large glass and add a few drops of calendula infusion. The product is used for regular washing. Before use, you should consult a doctor. The doctor will recommend the frequency of procedures and the duration of the treatment course per day.

If your temperature rises

It is better to choose which cold medicines will help with a high temperature if you have the opportunity to consult a doctor. In general, you need to bring down the fever only in a situation where the temperature rises above 38 degrees. The most common and universal option is acetylsalicylic acid, which eliminates fever and relieves pain. The product can be used up to six times a day. It is recommended to take it after a meal with plenty of water.

Cold tablets that relieve fever are on sale in abundance, and not least are drugs containing mefenamic acid. It inhibits inflammation, relieves pain and reduces fever. The medicine is recommended for fever and severe pain associated with elevated temperature.

What else should I try?

A literally universal, extremely common version of the drug for colds is paracetamol tablets. These can be found in the home medicine cabinet of any modern family. Paracetamol is a compound that effectively reduces fever, but rarely provokes side effects or allergic reactions. Allowed for use after meals up to 4 times daily.

Ibuprofen is no less common and useful. This cold medicine helps with fever and eliminates joint pain caused by it. The product relieves headaches. Quite often, Ibuprofen is prescribed as part of an integrated therapeutic approach for a disease caused by infection or inflammation.

Maintaining your strength

The newest cold medications are not only products designed to combat specific manifestations of pathology, but also effective compounds that support the strength of the immune system. There are several options on sale, but the most widely applicable is regular ascorbic acid. It is sold on its own, but you can choose a vitamin complex, since vitamin C is included in almost any such preparation. Thanks to the saturation of tissues with this compound, the body becomes stronger, immunological reactions increase efficiency, and the strength of resistance to the infectious agent increases.

Echinacea also has a positive effect on the immune system. Pharmacies offer a large selection of products based on this plant, from tablets to tinctures. You can buy herbal tea for brewing yourself. This immune stimulant is completely natural, good as a preventative during an epidemic, and helps maintain the body’s strength during the treatment of colds and flu. It is used as an element of an integrated approach in treating a patient. An alternative option with similar properties is “Immunal”.

Local use

Perhaps the most famous drug for local use since the time of the Soviet Union is “Zvezdochka”. This balm is still found in almost every home today. The product is made on a plant basis and has a combined effect. The drug is based on mint extracts, cinnamon, clove compounds, components extracted from camphor, eucalyptus. The balm is good if you need to cure colds, flu, runny nose, or cope with headaches. The use of “Golden Star” is unacceptable if there are wounds or inflammations on the skin.

Not less often, mustard plasters are installed at home. This remedy has shown its effectiveness not only for simple colds, but also as part of a course of treatment for pneumonia. Mustard powder can be used for influenza. The drug helps warm up the body tissues, increases the natural forces of fighting the disease.

The most common options: Teraflu

This antiviral drug for colds is most effective when the disease is just beginning. The medicine is available in powders and tablets. In general, doctors recommend choosing powder, since the effectiveness of this form is higher and the reaction is observed faster. You can notice a positive effect soon after the first use. Usually the sachet is diluted with an incomplete glass of hot water. To improve the taste, you can add sugar. It is allowed to use up to three servings of the medicine per day, and the duration of the therapeutic course is no more than a week. Theraflu is good as an element of adjuvant therapy. If the body does not react, you should consult a doctor to replace it with a more suitable option.

Sachets: large selection

If Theraflu did not help, it is quite possible that another antiviral drug for colds, which is no less widespread, Coldrex, will be effective. This complex remedy helps fight colds. The effectiveness, as well as the logic of the influence on the human body, is close to the composition described above. Statistical studies have shown that more than half of patients feel an improvement in their condition after the first dose. Coldrex eliminates headaches and activates the immune system. The powder is intended for dilution in hot water, one serving per 100 ml. The manufacturer recommends using no more than three sachets per day, otherwise there is a chance of a negative effect on the liver and kidneys. The duration of the therapeutic course is up to 5 days; in rare cases, at the doctor’s insistence, treatment can be extended for another two days.

Fervex has a similar effect. This drug has also been known for quite a long time and has proven itself well. Among other antiviral drugs for colds, it stands out for its wide variety of flavors. Sachets are intended for dilution in hot water and combined with sweeteners. You can use up to three servings per day, and the duration of the course coincides with the option described above - five days in the general case, in severe cases - up to 7 days. If the remedy is used to bring down a fever, you should use it for no more than three days in a row. If the temperature continues to remain high, you should urgently seek qualified medical help.

Heavy artillery

When the viral nature of the disease is identified, Kagocel is often prescribed. The product is available in tablet form and shows good results against flu and colds. A good effect can only be achieved through a course of treatment - 18 consecutive doses. For the first two days, the patient uses two tablets three times a day, 20 minutes before meals. From the third day, the dosage is halved: one tablet is taken at a time. The logic of administration remains the same: three times a day before meals for half an hour. Make sure that no more than 18 tablets are taken.

In some cases, the doctor recommends using Ergoferon. This drug is suitable for the treatment of adult patients. For the first two hours, the medicine is used with an interval of half an hour, drinking four servings in succession. Treatment is continued, using the composition every five hours. From the second day until complete recovery, Ergoferon is taken one tablet with a meal. If indicated, the doctor may recommend using a portion of this medicine daily after recovery. The course duration reaches six months. This is practiced if the disease was accompanied by pulmonary complications.

Efficient and effective

The antiviral drug Oscillococcinum has proven itself to be effective against both colds and flu. The product is quite expensive, but it works quickly and accurately. It belongs to the homeopathic family and is sold in a package of pills. The medicine is intended for oral use; you can first dissolve it in water. The therapeutic course involves the use of one tablet if the disease is mild. If the disease is relatively severe, Oscillococcinum should be used twice a day. The duration of the therapeutic course is from one to five days.

A number of doctors are convinced that such a drug (like some described above) is not only useless, but even dangerous. There is an opinion that drugs inhibit the body's defenses. This is most pronounced with prolonged systematic use. To avoid unpleasant consequences, before starting treatment you should consult a doctor and undergo an examination to determine the nature of the pathology.

Cold drops

Perhaps the most widespread remedy in this category is Aflubin. It activates the body's defenses, supports the immune system, and inhibits the virus. Adult patients are recommended to use the medicine in the amount of ten drops up to eight times daily. This is especially true if the patient suffers from a sore throat or suffers from fever. For mild forms of the disease, the manufacturer recommends using Aflubin four times daily for 5-10 days.

Another popular drops are called “Nazoferon”. They are intended for instillation into the nose. The product is used daily up to five times, one serving in each sinus. The duration of the course is from five days to twice as long. Some patients complain of dry mucous membranes during treatment. Whether it is worth using such a spray, you should first check with your doctor.

Capsules against colds and flu

The name “Avirol” has proven itself well. This remedy stimulates the immune system and strengthens the body's own strength. The effect is most pronounced in respiratory pathologies. One capsule should be used daily for two weeks. The time of administration does not depend on meals. After two weeks, use must be completely stopped to prevent addiction.

Another reliable capsule in pharmacies is sold under the name “Amizon Max”. They are effective against flu and colds. The product is quite strong and completely eliminates the manifestations of pathology in just a week. Intended for oral administration one hour before meals. Frequency of use - at least two, but no more than four times daily. The doctor must choose a specific option after assessing the severity of the disease. It is known that Amizon Max can provoke a disorder in the functioning of the intestinal tract.

How to treat a child?

Pharmaceutical companies produce specialized drugs for young patients. For example, Antiflu Kids has proven itself well.

It is intended for the treatment of six-year-old children and older patients. In rare cases, the medicine is used in the treatment of young children, but only when such practice is coordinated with the attending physician who is able to assess all the risks of the situation. The product is sold as a tasty syrup and powder. The syrup should be used, selecting the dose taking into account the patient’s body weight. The sachets are diluted in one hundred milliliters of liquid and used up to four times daily. This course of treatment lasts no more than two days, after which the frequency is halved. The general therapeutic program lasts for five days.

Another reliable option is the children's form "Antigrippin". These are tablets that hiss when they come in contact with water. Intended for the treatment of patients three years of age and older. At the age of 3-5 years, you should use half a tablet diluted in half a glass of clean water; from the age of five you can use a whole tablet. Up to four doses are allowed per day. The duration of the therapeutic course is three days on your own, up to five days under the supervision of a doctor.

Every autumn, in Russia, we usually have a boom in colds, which lasts all winter and ends only by April. Vitamin deficiency, fatigue, stress, hypothermia, as well as being in public places during flu quarantine - all this can trigger the development of acute respiratory infections in a person. And in our time, being sick is very, very unprofitable. Not only will you have to take sick leave, due to which your monthly salary will be significantly reduced. Also, medicines are now so expensive that many people simply cannot afford them. But there is a way out of every situation! In this article we will provide an overview of the most effective and at the same time cheap, or at least affordable, medications that can help cope with such unpleasant diseases as acute respiratory infections, acute respiratory viral infections, colds and flu.

How can I replace Antigrippin and why do I relieve the symptoms of flu and colds?

Nowadays it is fashionable, already at the first symptoms of flu and colds, slight malaise, to start taking such “anti-flu” (in quotes) drugs, such as Antigrippin and the like, without thinking at all about its composition and effect on the body. Although, as a rule, all these drugs do not cure, but only relieve the symptoms of the disease, roughly speaking, pain relief. Such preparations usually contain a standard set of active ingredients, namely: antipyretics (paracetamol, aspirin), Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and a decongestant that eliminates allergic symptoms. So, having taken such a magic pill, a person begins to feel much better, as if he were not sick, but all this is a mirage, because by temporarily stopping the pain, you will not stop the development of the disease. Feeling healthy, a person begins to lead an active lifestyle, while his body should have, on the contrary, reduced physical activity, directing all its strength to fight developing viruses and pathogenic flora. So, instead of helping yourself to recover, by taking an Antigrippin tablet for no real reason, you will force your body to work with all its strength. Of course, there are such “accidental” situations when a person has to cope with the symptoms of a cold because he needs to finish his work day, go to an exam... But even in this case, it is not necessary to spend money on expensive drugs. The average price for Antigrippin is 260 rubles, but it can be easily replaced with a combination of conventional antipyretic tablets (price from 2.70 rubles) and ascorbic acid (price from 5 rubles). Antipyretics will relieve cold symptoms, such as pain and fever, and ascorbic acid will activate the immune system.

Antipyretics available to any pocket. Is it necessary to lower the temperature?

In general, an antipyretic is designed to bring down the temperature.

Antipyretic - first aid for fever more than 38 degrees. As you know, it is not recommended to reduce the temperature below 38 degrees, since an increase in body temperature is a protective reaction of the immune system, due to which a number of specific processes are launched in the body, such as an increase in the production of interferons, antibodies, and activation of macrophages. All this creates an unfavorable environment for the life of bacteria and viruses in the body. Of course, everything should be within reasonable limits, and it is important to remember that, if body temperature exceeds 38 degrees, human health is at serious risk. So, with prolonged heat, convulsions may occur, and a person may become delirious. In addition, there is a high probability of developing heart disease and shortness of breath. In general, at high temperatures, the load on all organs is great. Such conditions are especially dangerous for people with chronic diseases. That is why it is so important to “bring down” a high temperature in time by drinking an antipyretic medicine.

List of antipyretic tablets:

• Ibuprofen 200 mg No. 20. Price 15 rubles. This is an analogue of the popular and more expensive drug Nurofen. It has a pronounced analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory effect.

The following can also help as an antipyretic:

• Paracetamol 500 mg tab. No. 10 2.70 rub. Indicated for pain of mild to moderate intensity, as well as fever and colds.
• Aspirin(acetylsalicylic acid) 500 mg tab. No. 10 3.40 rub. Indications for aspirin include symptoms such as “fever in infectious and inflammatory diseases”, as well as “pain syndrome of weak and moderate intensity of various origins.”
• Citramon P tab. No. 10 6.70 rub. It has a weak antipyretic and moderate analgesic effect. A Citramon P tablet should be taken, for example, if the temperature is low, but there is a headache.

Inexpensive means for gargling for acute respiratory infections, ARVI and sore throat

If you experience discomfort in your throat, soreness, dryness, pain, then you definitely need to start gargling for disinfection at least 3-5 times a day. A rinse solution can be prepared by dissolving a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water. It is also useful to gargle with decoctions of chamomile, calendula, and sage. We will offer the following inexpensive pharmaceutical products:

• Rotokan 50ml extra liquid, internal, local No. 1 fl. 47.60 rub. The Latin name of this drug is Rotocanum® (made in Russia). The solution contains extracts of calendula officinalis flowers, chamomile flowers and yarrow herb. Has a local antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect. Dilute a teaspoon of the solution in a glass of warm water and rinse the mouth and throat 3-5 times throughout the day.

• Furacilin 20 mg tablet No. 10 56.50 rub. Local antimicrobial agent. A furatsilin tablet is diluted in a glass of water and rinsed in the mouth for one minute.

Nasal decongestants

• Rhinostop 0.1% 10ml drops called. Price 29.40 rub. The active ingredient is xylometazoline. Drops are indicated for acute infectious and allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, otitis media as part of complex therapy. Xylometazoline helps reduce swelling of the nasopharyngeal mucosa.
• Naphthyzin 0.1% 10ml drops called. 20.70 rub. Active ingredient - naphazoline. The drops have a vasoconstrictor effect and are also used to relieve swelling of the nasopharyngeal mucosa.

Cough medicines

• Bromhexine 8 mg tab. No. 28 56.50 rub. Mucolytic (secretolytic) agent, has an expectorant and weak antitussive effect. Reduces the viscosity of sputum; activates the ciliated epithelium, increases volume and improves sputum discharge. Adults take 1-2 tablets 3-4 times a day. The effect appears within 2-5 days from the start of treatment. The drug is approved for use in children over 2 years of age.

• Mukaltin 50 mg tablet No. 20 49.00 rub. Herbal medicine based on the herb extract of medicinal marshmallow. It has secretolytic and expectorant effects. In particular, it is indicated for dry coughs and coughs with difficult to separate sputum of high viscosity. Adults should take 1-2 tablets 2-3 times a day before meals. The course of treatment is from 7 to 14 days. Contraindicated in children under 12 years of age. Approved for use by pregnant and nursing mothers on the recommendation of a doctor.

• Ambroxol 30 mg tab. No. 20 26.70 rub. Ambroxol tablets are indicated for respiratory diseases accompanied by the formation of viscous sputum. They have a secretolytic effect and a stimulating effect on the motor function of the respiratory tract. Adults are prescribed 1 tablet 3 times a day for 4-5 days.

• Acc 200 mg granules No. 20 pack. Orange RUB 127.70 According to doctors, ACC is a very effective drug, especially for wet coughs with a lot of sputum. The active ingredient, acetylcysteine, has a mucolytic effect and also facilitates the discharge of sputum. The drug is produced in granules packaged in sachets, as well as in effervescent soluble tablets, but the price for soluble tablets is twice as high. Granules, similar to tablets, are dissolved in a glass of water. The solution is taken three times a day. The effect of taking “ACC” will be noticeable the next day. The general course of treatment usually does not exceed 5-7 days.

Antiviral drugs

On the Russian pharmaceutical market, antiviral drugs occupy a far from low price category. Of course, there are medications such as Remantadine or Amantadine, the cost of which does not exceed 70 rubles per package, but after analyzing the opinions of specialists and consumers about the effectiveness of these drugs, we decided to refrain from recommending them. Here are a few of the most effective drugs that boast a fairly budget price among their analogues.

• Anaferon(for adults) No. 20 tab. 187 rub. Made in Russia. Composition: affinity-purified antibodies to human interferon gamma (water-alcohol mixture containing the active substance no more than 10-15 ng/g) 3 mg in 1 tablet. Anaferon has immunomodulatory and antiviral effects. Effective against influenza viruses (including avian influenza), parainfluenza, various herpes viruses, enteroviruses, tick-borne encephalitis virus, rotavirus, coronavirus, calicivirus, adenovirus, MS. An original antiviral drug with proven clinical effectiveness in the protection and treatment of ARVI and influenza. Has no side effects. It is taken at the first symptoms of colds and flu according to a special regimen specified in the instructions for the drug.

• Cycloferon 150 mg. tab. No. 10 Made in Russia. 184 rub. According to doctors, as well as customer reviews, cycloferon can quickly help cope with an incipient disease. The active ingredient, meglumine acridone acetate, is an immunostimulant that induces interferon. The main interferon-producing cells after the administration of Cycloferon are macrophages, T-lymphocytes, B-lymphocytes, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells. Depending on the type of infection, one or another part of the immune system is activated. Cycloferon is effective against tick-borne encephalitis viruses, influenza, hepatitis, herpes, cytomegalovirus, human immunodeficiency virus, papilloma virus and other viruses, as well as in the complex treatment of bacterial and fungal infections.

• Interferon human leukocyte 1000 IU/ml ampoules called. No. 10 - 90.40 rub. The active ingredient, interferon alpha, is an antiviral agent that is active against many viruses and not active against HIV. The ampoules contain powder, which should be diluted in 2 ml of boiled water. The solution is used as antiviral nasal drops and is considered an effective means for the prevention and treatment of acute respiratory infections and influenza, especially in children.

Antibiotics

The most popular antibiotic prescribed for acute respiratory diseases is Amoxicillin (more expensive analogues are Flemoxin and Amoxiclav). Biseptol is also used for complications of respiratory tract disease, and less commonly, azithromycin. All of these antibiotics have an effect on a wide range of bacteria and are prescribed by a doctor for inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract. In general, it is undesirable to start taking antibiotics on your own without consulting a specialist, because if the drug is chosen incorrectly or the dosage is incorrect, there is a high risk of developing a superinfection, when the number of pathogenic bacteria in the body increases sharply, and not necessarily those that initially caused the disease. As a result, the severity of the disease will increase and more complex treatment will be required to overcome it. This is why it is so dangerous to self-medicate with antibiotics. Here we provide a list, as well as prices, of the most affordable and effective antibiotics prescribed for colds:

• Amoxicillin 500 mg tab. No. 20 - 54.10r

• Biseptol 480 mg tab. No. 28 - 92.70 rub.

• Azithromycin 500 mg caps. No. 3 - 78.70 rub.

List of lozenges that help with sore throat

• Pectusin 10 tab. Price 34.70. Pectusin is a combined preparation based on plant components (active ingredient - eucalyptus leaf oil + Racementol) with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

• Faringomed tab.d/rass. No. 20. Price 85.20 rub. Reduces swelling, redness, sore throat and sore throat, and facilitates nasal breathing.

• Faringosept 10 mg tab.d/sol. No. 10 lemon. Price 90.90 rubles The active ingredient ambazon has an antiseptic, antimicrobial effect, cocoa powder softens the throat, eliminates soreness and dryness

Thank you for your attention, dear readers! Be healthy!

Contents: Medicines in the form of powder Medicines in the form of tablets Medicines in the form of drops and sprays Children's medicines against colds Conclusion Interesting video

Every day we are constantly faced with various ailments and infections that can cause serious complications. Some of them include colds - influenza, ARVI, acute respiratory infections. They cause a lot of problems, are accompanied by unpleasant symptoms, and if timely treatment is not started, they can lead to complications over time.

For this reason, it is imperative to consider the rating of cold medications that can quickly bring the condition back to normal.

Preparations in powder form

• Theraflu. This product is available in two forms - powder and tablets. The first form allows you to get an effective result after the first use. One sachet is used for 100-150 ml of warm water. Treatment should last for 7 days, it is recommended to use it as part of combination therapy;
• Coldrex. It is highly effective. After the first use, it eliminates headaches, relieves inflammation, and improves immunity. It is recommended to take the powder with boiled water - add one sachet per 100 ml;
• Fervex. This medicine is available in several flavors. It is recommended to drink as a medicinal tea for colds. One sachet is diluted in 150 ml of water. It is recommended to take no more than 3 sachets per day.

Medicines in tablet form

The most effective ones include:

• Kagocel. This is an effective drug that suppresses the activity of viruses that cause colds and flu. When taken, it eliminates the development of inflammation and stops the spread of infection, which can cause complications. You must take the medicine according to the instructions. The course of therapy should include 18 doses of the drug;
• Ergoferon. The antiviral drug is highly effective in the treatment of colds. For a quick recovery, it is recommended to take 4 tablets in the first two hours. In the subsequent period, three doses are taken every 4-6 hours. Then it is recommended to take the medicine one dose per day.

Medicines in the form of drops and sprays

Preparations in the form of drops and sprays have a good effect on colds. They help quickly eliminate unpleasant symptoms and possible complications. The rating of flu medications should include the following:

• Aflubin. When taking this medicine, it has a general strengthening effect on the entire body. It heals it and also eliminates pathogenic organisms. If you experience fever and pain, you should take 10 drops up to 8 times a day;
• Nazoferon. This product is available in the form of drops, which are intended for intranasal use. Drops eliminate inflammation and have a pathogenic effect on viruses. To achieve positive results, one injection is made into each nostril up to 5 times a day.

Children's cold medicines

When considering the top medications for colds, you should pay attention to children's medications. The most effective ones include:

• Antiflu Kids. In accordance with the instructions, the drug can be used for children over 6 years of age. Available in the form of a syrup with a pleasant taste and in powder form. When used, unpleasant symptoms are eliminated. The syrup is prescribed in doses according to the child’s weight. One sachet of powder is diluted with 100 ml of water, it is recommended to use no more than 4 times a day;
• Antigrippin. Available in the form of effervescent tablets for dilution in water. Allowed for use by children over three years of age. Used in accordance with the instructions. The course is no more than 3 days.

Conclusion

Many medications help quickly eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of a cold. When used, the inflammatory process is completely suppressed, as well as the development of complications is prevented. It is recommended to use them only after consultation with a doctor and in accordance with the instructions.

Every year during seasonal temperature fluctuations, people suffer from many unpleasant symptoms caused by colds.

In pharmacy chains, the range of antiviral drugs is simply overwhelming in its diversity.

Medicines differ not only in price, but also in their principle of action, release form, and composition.

Naturally, you shouldn’t voluntarily prescribe medications for colds, but in order to get a little insight into such remedies, you should read the proposed article. A list of cold medicines will help you understand the characteristics of each drug.

Arbidol, Theraflu, Anaferon

Arbidol is a film-coated anti-virus tablet. Their main active ingredient is umifenovir, auxiliary: potato starch, microcrystalline cellulose. The remedy is indicated for:

1. acute respiratory disease (ARI);
2. severe respiratory syndrome;
3. influenza type B, A,

The medicine may well become part of complex therapy in the treatment of pneumonia and chronic bronchitis. Much less often, it is recommended for the prevention of health problems after surgery in order to strengthen the immune system.

Fast-acting tablets for colds and flu. They will help improve the patient’s condition the very next day after the start of treatment.

Arbidol has no contraindications. The only caveat when using it: cannot be used for children under 3 years of age. Children under 12 years of age are given 1 tablet per day, and 2 tablets for adults and children over 12 years of age.

This cold remedy is not prescribed to healthy patients for prophylactic purposes.

Theraflu powder

It needs to be diluted with hot boiled water. The main active ingredient is paracetamol. The excipients were pheniramine maleate and phenylephrine hydrochloride.

This is a new generation cold remedy. It can relieve illness and runny nose in just a day, but subject to strict adherence to the doctor’s instructions and bed rest. Theraflu is characterized by the following actions:

• antivirus;
• antipyretic.

The powder should not be taken together with beta-blockers and antidepressants. Theraflu should not be prescribed to patients with diabetes mellitus, pregnant or lactating women, people suffering from alcoholism, or children under 12 years of age.

The medicine is fast-acting, but it is better to use it carefully. This is relevant if the patient suffers from arterial hypertension, severe impairment of the kidneys and liver.

Tablets for colds and flu contain antibodies that activate the functioning of the human immune system. The drug is recommended for the treatment of children over 12 years of age and adult patients. A special product, Anaferon for Children, is produced for children. It can be used from 1 year of age.

You should know that this medicine is not only against viruses, but also to strengthen the immune system during seasonal fluctuations in air temperature. It helps treat mild herpes virus infections well.

Cold medicine Anaferon:

1. acts quickly;
2. has no contraindications;
3. does not cause adverse reactions.

The drug should be discarded only if there is an individual intolerance to any of its components. In extremely rare cases, a skin rash may occur.

Kagocel, Coldrex, Antigrippin

Kagocel is the best fast-acting remedy against colds. Not suitable for children under 3 years of age, pregnant women and during lactation. You should not take pills if you are hypersensitive.

Preparations of this type are good to use to get rid of a runny nose, herpes, flu, and acute viral infection. Kagocel is also suitable for the prevention of these ailments.

To avoid getting sick in the autumn, it is enough to take 1 tablet every day for a week. If the cold has already begun, you should take 2 pieces three times a day in the first few days. Children are given 1 tablet.

Provided that the patient strictly follows the doctor’s instructions and strictly adheres to the instructions for use, the possibility of developing adverse reactions in the body is negligible. When the patient notices the development of an allergy, you need to stop taking the medication and consult a doctor to replace it.

Coldrex

This cold remedy comes in powder form. It should be diluted with boiling water and drunk hot. The drug Coldrex is characterized by a powerful antiviral effect and helps to cope with the symptoms of ARVI. The list of symptoms, in addition to a runny nose, included:

• headache;
• nasal congestion;
• increased body temperature;
• aching joints;
• discomfort in the throat.

Coldrex is no less effective against a runny nose. The powder is not recommended for children, pregnant or lactating women who have a cold, severe liver dysfunction, diabetes, heart problems, or closed-angle glaucoma.

Adults should take 1 packet every 4 hours for colds and flu in the first days of illness. As soon as the symptoms of the disease stop, there is no need to use the powder. The maximum course of therapy should not exceed 5 consecutive days.

If an overdose occurs, the patient risks severe liver damage. In addition, long-term use of the drug increases the chance of developing side effects, for example, disturbances in night sleep, increased blood pressure, attacks of nausea, and headaches.

You should refrain from treatment with Coldrex without first consulting your doctor.

Antigrippin

Another drug against viruses is Antigrippin. It is believed that the medicine is the best and helps against runny nose and colds quickly and effectively. The product is produced in tablet form, like many similar drugs. It is prescribed to patients over 15 years of age.

This medicine will not help with a bacterial infection. It should be taken 1 piece 2-3 times a day until the patient feels better.

Antigrippin should not be taken by children with hypersensitivity to vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and paracetamol. It is also prohibited for the following violations:

1. renal failure;
2. phenylketonuria;
3. prostatic hyperplasia.

Contraindicated for pregnant and lactating women. It is prescribed with extreme caution to patients with viral hepatitis, alcohol dependence, and the elderly.

Fervex, Amiksin, Ingavirin

There are medications that instantly help with colds. Fervex powder is usually classified as such. It will be no less effective for the disease rhinopharyngitis.

The powder can be taken in combination with other anti-flu medications. If the phase of the disease is acute, it is recommended to take 1 packet three times a day. During therapy, a gap of at least 4 hours should be maintained between use.

The drug should not be taken by sick people suffering from renal failure or excessive sensitivity to its individual components. During pregnancy, it is allowed only from the second trimester.

As for the lactation period, some components of the product may pass into breast milk. For this reason, it is better to avoid Fervex at this time.

Cold medicine should not be combined with products containing alcohol. This can cause severe liver damage. Sometimes patients complain of the development of adverse reactions:

• nausea;
• pain in the abdominal cavity;
• gagging;
• dizziness.

It is extremely rare that allergic reactions may occur, such as skin itching or rashes.

This anti-virus agent has an immunomodulatory effect. It is produced in the form of tablets, the main active ingredient is tilaxin. Auxiliary components: croscarmellose sodium, calcium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose.

The tablets combine well with other drugs against viruses and influenza. During seasonal temperature fluctuations they can be used to prevent ARVI (in adults and children).

For adult patients with flu and colds, it is enough to take 1 tablet once a day for 3 days. For prevention, take 1 piece. The drug cannot be prescribed to patients with hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, during pregnancy or lactation.

Cold and flu medications under this name are produced in capsule form. Ingavirin helps quickly and efficiently. Fever, headache, discomfort in the throat, body aches disappear within a day after taking the product.

Capsules are prescribed to be taken once a day, regardless of meals. Usually the total course of treatment does not exceed 5-7 days. Therapy is started immediately after the first symptoms of the disease, for example, a runny nose. When treatment is delayed, the drug, like other drugs, begins to work less effectively.

So, if the first capsule was drunk a few days after the onset of the disease, the result will not come quickly.

Viferon, Anvimax, Grippferon

Many of the cold remedies and runny nose medications discussed above are not always approved for expectant and young nursing mothers and children. Therefore, the treatment of colds, runny nose, and acute respiratory viral infections in these patients cannot be done without the drug Viferon.

Suppositories are perhaps the fastest way to treat viral ailments. They have no contraindications, except for the first trimester of pregnancy. This effective medicine helps relieve symptoms during colds and flu.

Viferon copes better with acute respiratory infections than tablets and other drugs. Adult patients are prescribed 1 suppository three times a day. For children over one year of age, the dosage is reduced to 1 suppository per day. And it should be noted that this is an extreme treatment for ARVI and influenza at home

There are usually no side effects for those who have used cold and flu remedies in suppositories. Allergic rashes and skin itching occur only in particularly extreme cases. If this happens, treatment is canceled and other drugs against the common cold and viruses are used. The list of permitted means is very extensive.

Anvimax cold and flu remedy is available in powder form. It is necessary for symptomatic therapy; it is not able to influence the root cause of the disease. Includes:

• ascorbic acid;
• paracetamol.

Patients with excessive sensitivity to these components should use such medications against runny nose and other symptoms of a cold with extreme caution. Powder is the best remedy among the rest. Anvimax is a fast-acting drug that relieves body temperature, headaches, aches and sore throat. If used correctly, the medicine helps to overcome the disease in a short time.

The powder should not be prescribed to patients under 18 years of age, people with renal failure, sarcoidosis, chronic alcohol dependence, hypercalcemia, phenylketonuria.

Like many other cold medicines, Anvimax cannot be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Take the powder strictly according to the instructions. During an exacerbation of symptoms, you need to drink 1 packet 2 to 3 times a day. On average, the course should not be longer than 5 days in a row.

Grippferon

Grippferon is a good interferon-based medicine that helps fight viruses. It is also characterized by an immunomodulatory effect on the body.

The medication is approved for the treatment of pregnant women and children under one year of age. The only contraindication is intolerance to individual components. The course of treatment is 5-7 days.

The named tablets and other drugs are not a complete list of effective drugs. Flu medications should be selected on an individual basis. However, even in this case, the development of adverse reactions cannot be avoided. Therefore, the treatment process must be carried out under the supervision of a doctor, which is discussed in detail in the video in this article.

Flu pills

With the onset of cold weather, the number of people suffering from the flu increases sharply. If this disease does not bypass you, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the information about medications that can be used. Otherwise, you can get confused in all the variety of antiviral, immunomodulatory, antibacterial drugs.

Why is an antiviral drug prescribed for the flu?

The causative agents of the disease are different types of viruses. Because of them, the body's defenses are reduced, the upper respiratory tract and vascular walls are affected, and diseases of the heart, kidneys, nervous system and other organs, and inflammation can develop. You should not rely on immunity, the body’s defenses. It is extremely important to start taking antiviral pills in time to suppress the activity of viruses. Medicines effectively disrupt their structure and promote the formation of interferon.

There are great benefits to taking anti-flu tablets on the first day of symptoms. If you start drinking them later, the likelihood of complications decreases. During the infection season, doctors recommend taking antiviral medications for colds and flu for preventive purposes. To avoid getting sick, it is advisable to additionally:

• wear a mask;
• wash your hands frequently;
• use oxolinic ointment.

Do antibiotics help with colds and flu?

The group of drugs does not pose a threat to viruses, but is still often prescribed for viral diseases. The fact is that their use is advisable if complications are suspected. Sick people may develop tonsillitis, bronchitis, otitis media and other diseases caused by pathogens. Before starting their treatment, you need to take antiviral tablets for influenza, ARVI, and then start taking broad-spectrum antibiotics.

An effective cure for flu and colds

You can fight diseases with different drugs, but you should not buy them yourself, relying on the advice of friends or your own experience. After consultation, doctors will prescribe antiviral tablets for influenza, means to strengthen and restore immunity. There are many medications that combine both actions. If complications occur, antibiotics may be taken. Read more about the list of drugs and their taxes.

Effective antiviral drugs

The following can be used to treat influenza:

1. Remantadine. A well-known inexpensive drug that suppresses influenza A viruses. After taking it, the patient stops pathological inflammatory processes, reduces symptoms, and prevents the risk of complications.
2. Kagocel. Another well-known flu medicine that belongs to the group of antiviral drugs. It has a positive effect by stimulating the production of interferon at the physiological level.
3. Cycloferon. It affects the cells of the immune system, stimulates the production of interferons. Maximum activity is achieved 2 hours after taking Cycloferon.
4. Ingavirin. The tablets quickly suppress the reproduction of the virus and stop its development. The remedy fights the disease especially well at the initial stage - cell reproduction.

Symptomatic anti-influenza drugs

These drugs are prescribed to reduce and eliminate individual symptoms of the disease. For example, appropriate medications are used to relieve a runny nose, antipyretics are used to reduce fever, and so on. Review of some medications:

1. Decathylene. Effectively eliminates infections of the oral cavity, pharynx, and relieves pain in the throat. Has bactericidal and fungistatic effects. Tablets for colds and flu must be dissolved every 2 hours. Suitable for children and adults.
2. Fervex. A safe remedy that quickly relieves cold symptoms: sore throat, fever, nasal congestion, swelling. It is recommended to take 4 times a day.
3. Sinuforte. A symptomatic drug for restoring nasal breathing and eliminating congestion. When used, the nasal mucosa is irritated, the sinuses are independently cleansed of pus and mucus.

Flu medications for children

Before consulting a doctor, children can be treated with symptomatic medications, but antiviral medications can only be given after being prescribed by a specialist. Names of popular medicines:

1. Arbidol. The children's version is available in tablets. The drug has the ability to block influenza viruses and trigger increased production of interferon in affected cells. Arbidol reduces the “contagiousness” of the disease to others, alleviates symptoms, and prevents complications.
2. Tamiflu. Used only for the treatment and prevention of influenza. There is a lot of controversy about the advisability of use, so doctors prescribe it only for complicated and progressive disease. Contraindicated for children under 12 months.
3. Aspirin. Effervescent tablets for influenza dissolve in water and are a symptomatic remedy. Suitable only for treating children over 14 years of age. Taking it helps reduce fever, joint pain, eliminate weakness, and lethargy.

Video: how to choose a flu remedy

Reviews

Elena, 34 years old: The most successful flu remedy for me is Remantadine. The pills are cheap, but even expensive drugs don’t help as much as they do. As a rule, I get sick in the winter during the epidemic season and start drinking them when I have a sore throat. The packaging lasts for several seasons. But for a child I always keep children’s Arbidol in stock - it is easier to tolerate.

Vera, 22 years old: For several years, at the first symptoms of the flu, I have been using Anvimax lemon powder. The active ingredient of the product is remantadine, it also contains loratadine and ascorbic acid. If Anvimax is sold out in pharmacies, I can take any express remedy for the flu. It could be Ferex, Coldrex. They also help, but are inferior to the beloved Anvimax.

Evgeniya, 42 years old: My son has grown up, but he still doesn’t like taking pills, even if he feels very bad. The last time I got sick with intestinal flu, I decided to give him Aspirin tablets. Surprisingly, he liked it! More importantly, the temperature dropped quickly. After this time, if necessary, I give the magic remedy to my younger husband, and they drink it with pleasure.

Antiviral drugs for colds are the main remedy in the fight against this category of ailments.

As you know, during the period of intensification of colds, it is better to prevent them, and not to bring them to a state where treatment is already necessary. Activating your immune system during the cold season is the most effective measure to protect yourself from colds. Then the disease will not develop, or at least the situation will not become severe.

If the disease is of a viral nature - acute respiratory viral disease (ARVI) - then treatment is indispensable. And the best way to deal with the problem in this case is antiviral drugs. The essence of their action is their impact on the virus itself, which is the etiological factor.

Antiviral drugs are used to treat ARVI and influenza. These medications affect the replication of the virus in such a way as to stop it from multiplying. Antiviral drugs have a synthetic or natural base. They are used both in the fight against the disease and for its prevention. Different stages of a cold may be affected by antiviral drugs. Today, modern science knows about five hundred causative agents of different types of colds. There are few antiviral drugs to combat them.

Basically, viral diseases are treated with three types of drugs:

• broad spectrum flu medications;
• drugs to treat herpes infections.
• means to combat cytomegalovirus.

In case of a severe form of the disease, antiviral drugs are taken; in case of a mild form, the use of interferons is permissible. Within a day and a half after the first symptoms appear, it is necessary to urgently start taking an antiviral drug. If the virus is allowed to multiply to such a scale that it colonizes the entire body, then it can be reached to the point that taking medications will not have any effect.

Effect of antiviral drugs for colds

With the help of antiviral drugs, the causes of the occurrence and development of acute respiratory disease are eliminated. The results of this action are:

• reducing the risks of exacerbations of chronic diseases (chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, etc.);
• reducing the duration of a cold by several days, alleviating its symptoms;
• reducing the risk that severe complications will develop after suffering an acute respiratory illness.

Antiviral drugs for colds are also used as emergency prevention when one of the family members is sick and the risk of infection to healthy people needs to be reduced.

Antiviral tablets for colds

In the class of synthetic antiviral drugs that work well against the influenza virus, there are two groups of effective drugs. The essence of the action of M-channel blockers is to block the virus so that it cannot penetrate cells and multiply. Some of the proven drugs against viruses in this category are “Amantadine” (“Midantan”), as well as “Rimantadine” (“Remantadine”). For the desired effect, they must be taken as soon as the disease begins to manifest itself. Another drawback is that it is not always possible to understand what kind of virus a person has fallen ill with. And these antiviral drugs are indicated during an epidemic against the influenza A virus. In addition, bird and swine flu are resistant to them. It is important to remember that taking an antiviral drug for a cold should be done not only by the sick person himself, but also by all members of his family.

An effective antiviral remedy for colds

But neuraminidase inhibitors act on influenza A and B viruses. The essence of their action is to suppress the enzyme that is responsible for the reproduction of the virus. Representatives of this group of drugs are Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and Zanamivir (Relenza). You can start taking them within two days from the initial manifestations of the disease.

List of antiviral drugs for colds

• "Tamiflu";
• "Relenza";
• "Grippferon";
• "Amiksin";
• "Kagocel";
• "Remantadine";
• "Viferon";
• "Ribavirin";
• "Amizon";
• "Cycloferon".

Antiviral drug for colds "Zanamivir"

Zanamivir is prescribed for influenza in adults and children over 5 years of age, 5 mg inhalation twice a day for 5 days. The total daily dose reaches 10 mg. The drug is not combined with other inhaled drugs (including bronchodilators), due to the fact that exacerbations are possible in patients with bronchial asthma and other nonspecific lung diseases. A number of people without pulmonary pathology may experience signs of irritation of the nasopharynx, which in rare cases reaches the appearance of bronchospasm.

Antiviral drug for colds "Ozeltamivir"

For influenza for adults and children over 12 years of age, the recommended dose of Oseltamivir is 75 mg 2 times a day for at least 5 days. Oseltamivir is prescribed to children over 1 year old - with body weight less than 15 kg - 30 mg, from 15 to 23 kg - 45 mg, from 23 to 40 kg - 60 mg, over 40 kg - 75 mg twice a day for five days.

The drug is prescribed with caution in case of renal failure; it may cause nausea and vomiting when taken.

Antiviral drugs for colds with a wider spectrum of action are “Ribavirin” (“Ribarin”) and “Inosin Pranobex” (“Groprinosin”).

Antiviral drug for colds "Ribavirin"

"Ribavirin" acts on influenza A and B viruses, parainfluenza, respiratory syncytial virus, coronaviruses, rhinoviruses. A special feature of the drug is its high toxicity, so it is used only if respiratory syncytial infection is confirmed, which often leads to bronchiolitis in children.

Ribavirin is used to treat influenza in adults over 18 years of age (200 mg 3-4 times a day with meals for 5-7 days) in the absence of pregnancy, renal failure and hemolytic anemia.

Antiviral drug for colds "Inosine pranobex"

"Inosine pranobex" fights influenza viruses, parainfluenza, rhinoviruses, adenoviruses. This antiviral drug for colds stimulates the human body's defenses. For the treatment of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections, it is recommended to take it: adults, 2 tablets 3-4 times a day at regular intervals for 5-7 days; For children, the daily dose is 50 mg per kilogram of body weight.

Take the daily dose in 3-4 doses at equal intervals. The duration of treatment is 5–7 days.

Interferons and interferon inducers

Another large group of antiviral drugs for colds are interferons and interferon inducers. Interferons are protein substances that the body synthesizes as a response to infection, making the body more resistant to viruses. They have a wide spectrum of action, which makes them stand out from many other synthetic drugs. But some experts argue that they are not very effective for ARVI. In case of colds, they are prescribed as nasal drops and rectal suppositories. Native leukocyte interferon is instilled four to six times a day, Reaferon (interferon alfa-2a) two drops two to four times a day. Viferon (alpha-2b interferon) usually comes as suppositories; adults usually use Viferon 3 and 4.

There are also interferon inducers. These are drugs that stimulate the body to produce its own interferons. Colds are treated with Tiloron (Amiksin), Meglumina acridone acetate (Cycloferon) and a number of other antiviral drugs for colds.

Antiviral drug for colds "Amiksin"

For the treatment of influenza and acute respiratory infections, Amiksin is prescribed orally after meals, two tablets of 0.125 g for adults and 0.06 g for children over 7 years of age on the first day of illness and then 1 tablet every other day.

For a course of treatment - up to 6 tablets. Contraindicated for pregnant women and children under 7 years of age.

Antiviral drug for colds "Cycloferon"

"Cycloferon" is used for the treatment of influenza and acute respiratory infections in the form of intramuscular injections at a dose of 250 mg (12.5% ​​2 ml) two days in a row, then every other day or 1 tablet 0.15 g every other day for 20 days.

Antiviral drug for colds "Kagocel"

"Kagocel" is an interferon inducer with direct antiviral and immunomodulatory effects.

It is usually prescribed for influenza and acute respiratory infections in adults, 2 tablets 3 times a day in the first two days (daily dose is 72 mg), then 1 tablet 3 times a day (daily dose 36 mg). In total, a 4-day course contains up to 18 tablets.

Antiviral drug for colds "Arbidol"

An antiviral drug such as Arbidol is effective in treating colds. It acts against viruses A, B, and also treats parainfluenza, syncytial infections, and adenoviruses. The essence of the drug’s action is to stimulate the production of endogenous interferon; it has an antioxidant effect and strengthens the immune system.

Arbidol for colds without complications is prescribed: children from 3 to 6 years old - 50 mg, from 6 to 12 years old - 100 mg, over 12 years old and adults - 200 mg 4 times a day (every 6 hours) for 5 days. With the development of complications (bronchitis, pneumonia, etc.), children from 3 to 6 years old take Arbidol 50 mg, from 6 to 12 years old - 100 mg, over 12 years old, adults - 200 mg 4 times a day (every 6 hours ) for 5 days, then a single dose once a week for a month.

Antiviral drug for colds "Amizon"

The antiviral drug for colds "Amizon" is an inducer of endogenous interferon and has antiviral, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects.

Adults take Amizon 2–4 times a day after meals for moderate influenza and acute respiratory infections, 0.25 g, for severe cases, 0.5 g for 5–7 days; The course dose of treatment is 3–6.5 g. Children aged 6–12 years drink 0.125 g 2–3 times a day for 5–7 days.

Antiviral drug for colds "Anaferon"

"Anaferon" refers to homeopathic remedies with antiviral and immunomodulatory effects. It is also used to treat colds and flu. Directions for use for adults: 1 tablet, sublingually from three to six times a day, depending on the severity of the disease.

Treatment begins at the first respiratory symptoms. After improvement of the condition, it is recommended to switch to taking the drug once a day for 8-10 days. For children from six months to three years old, dissolve one tablet in 15 ml of water and give it to drink. For prophylaxis, Anaferon is prescribed one tablet once a day for one to three months.

Antiviral drug for colds "Grippferon"

"Grippferon" is an immunomodulatory, antiviral and anti-inflammatory drug for intranasal use. The duration of the course of use and dose of the drug "Grippferon" is usually determined by the attending physician.

The recommended dose for children under 1 year of age is 500 IU (1 drop of the drug) 5 times a day; for children from 1 to 3 years old is 1000 IU (2 drops of Grippferon) 3-4 times a day; from 3 to 14 years old is 1000 IU (2 drops of the drug “Grippferon”) 4-5 times a day. The recommended dose for adults is 1500 IU (3 drops) 5-6 times a day. The duration of the course of application is 5 days.

Herbal antiviral drugs for colds

Some medicinal herbs also have antiviral effects. The action of many herbal preparations is directed against viruses belonging to the herpes family. Colds are often accompanied by herpetic rashes, in addition, the course of cytomegalovirus infection also often occurs with the same symptoms as ARVI. Alpizarin belongs to this category of drugs. The active ingredient in it is an extract of plants such as alpine kopek, yellow kopek, and mango leaves. The antiviral drug "Flacozide" contains an active substance that is obtained from Amur velvet and Laval velvet. For external use, use the ointments “Megozin” (cottonseed oil), “Helepin” (aerial part of Lespedeza kopecky), “Gossypol” (obtained when cotton seeds or cotton roots are processed).

Antiviral drugs that are used for colds also include Altabor. It is based on an extract of gray and black (sticky) alder fruits.

Turf pike and ground reed grass give life to the drug “Proteflazid”; it is also used in the treatment of colds, flu and for their prevention. The German drug “Imupret” has an antiviral and immunomodulatory effect. It contains horsetail, walnut leaves and oak bark.

Price of antiviral drugs for colds

The price range for antiviral drugs for colds is quite wide - from 20 to 200 hryvnia (of course, it still depends on the packaging and the number of tablets). In any case, it is better to consult with your doctor, who will prescribe the drug that will be most effective in a particular case.

If we name the approximate prices for the main antiviral drugs used to treat colds, in Ukrainian pharmacies they are: “Amizon” - from 20 UAH, “Arbidol” - from 50 UAH, “Amiksin” - from 30 UAH, “Anaferon” - from 40 UAH, "Remantadine" - from 11 UAH, "Kagocel" from 70 UAH, "Viferon" - from 70 UAH - from 110 UAH.

Inexpensive antiviral drugs for colds

Inexpensive antiviral drugs for colds, which are often prescribed by doctors and are widely used - “Amizon”, “Amiksin”, “Anaferon”. For 20-40 hryvnia you can buy 10 tablets. But once again, please note: before deciding to purchase an antiviral drug for a cold, you should consult with your doctor.

With the help of antiviral drugs, it is not the consequence, but the cause of the cold that is eliminated. This is a great advantage of antiviral drugs in the treatment of colds, and this also explains their effectiveness. Antiviral drugs shorten the duration of a cold by two to three days and make it easier. Due to the use of antiviral drugs for colds, the risk that other chronic diseases will worsen (exacerbation of bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis and other diseases) is reduced, and various complications will not arise, as often happens with other drugs. In addition, antiviral drugs for colds have an excellent effect in the prevention of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza, including among healthy family members when a sick person is at home.

Names of antibiotics for colds and flu

In the treatment of respiratory diseases, targeted drugs are used that act on the cause of the disease. They inhibit pathogens. This type of therapy is called etiological therapy. In the fight against flu and colds, the main thing is to choose the right medications. Some people, in an effort to recover as quickly as possible, start taking strong antibiotics for colds at the first symptoms of ARVI. Is it correct?

When to take antibiotics for colds and flu

In most cases, respiratory diseases are caused by viruses, which are not affected by antibacterial medications. Therefore, their use from the first day of the disease is not justified. Treatment of respiratory diseases with antibiotics is justified if, on the 5th-6th day of the flu or cold, a person feels consistently unwell. As a rule, these are symptoms of a bacterial infection, which provokes the development of purulent sore throat, acute bronchitis, and pneumonia.

Signs of complications of flu and colds:

• after the onset of ARVI, following improvement on days 5-6, body temperature rises sharply;
• general health worsens, fever, cough, shortness of breath appear;
• pain in the throat, chest area, and ears intensifies;
• lymph nodes enlarge.

When treating colds and flu with antibiotics, never interrupt treatment when you feel better. People who make this mistake suffer twice as much later. In this case, an improvement in a person’s condition does not mean that the disease has passed. A batch of bacteria died under the influence of antibiotics, but another part of them adapts to the drug and begins to attack the weakened body with renewed vigor. This leads to a new round of the disease with subsequent complications.

What antibiotics are best to take for a cold?

To treat respiratory diseases, bactericidal drugs are taken to destroy pathogenic microorganisms. Antibiotics play the role of heavy artillery in the fight against colds and flu when there is a risk of acute complications. Three main groups of antibacterial drugs are used to treat respiratory diseases:

1. penicillin - ampiox, augmentin, amoxapclav;
2. cephalosporins - cefotaxime, cefpirome, cefazolin;
3. macrolides - roxithromycin, azithromycin, clarithromycin.

List of effective antibiotics for adults

For colds of bacterial origin, doctors prescribe antibiotics in extreme cases. A prolonged cough, persistent sore throat, severe fever, and persistently high body temperature are alarming signs of the development of an acute disease. In this case, traditional antiviral drugs, immunostimulants, vitamins and herbs are powerless. For effective therapy, you need to know which antibiotic is best for a cold in an adult:

• amoxicillin;
• arlet;
• flemoclav;
• rovamycin;
• azithromycin;
• hemomycin;
• suprax;
• cefepime;
• erythromycin;
• Levofloxacin.

Names of good drugs for children

For the treatment of bacterial diseases at an early age, antibiotics are used in extreme cases. For pneumonia, acute otitis media, purulent sore throat resulting from a respiratory illness, taking such drugs is justified. The form of antibiotics prescribed depends on the age of the child. For infants - medicines in injections, for older children - in tablets. Babies are not always given injections; you are allowed to open the ampoule and give the child the medicine in the required dosage. Children's antibiotics for colds:

• ampicillin;
• flemoxin solutab;
• Moximac;
• avelox;
• augmentin;
• zinnat;
• macrofoam;
• fromilid uno;
• esparoxy;
• alpha normix.

Parents often mistakenly believe that antibacterial therapy is necessary for the successful treatment of flu and colds in children. This is a misconception about the effect of antibiotics on a child's body. For viral infections in children, the use of these drugs is unjustified, even at high temperatures that persist for a long time.

Treatment of children with antibiotics leads to dysbiosis, weakened immune system, and anemia. It is advisable to administer antibacterial therapy to children only in critical situations. For example, when aerobic streptococcal tonsillitis, acute otitis media, pneumonia, inflammation of the paranasal sinuses are observed. The use of antibiotics for the treatment of children with colds and flu without complications is justified when:

• pronounced signs of reduced body resistance - constant subfertile body temperature, frequent colds and viral diseases, HIV, oncology, congenital disorders of the immune system;
• rickets, malformations of general development, lack of weight;
• the child has a history of chronic recurrent otitis media.

Gentle drugs for the treatment of colds in pregnant women

When treating complications of a respiratory disease in an pregnant woman or a nursing mother, the effect of the antibiotic on the development of the fetus is taken into account. For treatment, gentle antibacterial drugs are selected. To select the appropriate medicine, the doctor identifies the causative agent of the disease and its resistance to various drugs. If it is impossible to conduct such a study, gentle antibiotics for pregnant women are prescribed:

• ampicillin;
• oxacillin;
• cefazolin;
• erythromycin;
• azithromycin;
• bioparox;
• minocycline;
• oxamp;
• ericcycline;
• ristomycin.

For the treatment of flu and colds in pregnant and nursing mothers, in order to avoid the occurrence of dysbacteriosis, it is advisable to take drugs in the form of injections. To avoid allergic reactions, the use of antibacterial therapy is combined with antihistamines. Chocolate, citrus fruits, and coffee are excluded from the diet of pregnant and lactating women.

List of broad-spectrum antibiotics

In bacterial therapy for the treatment of complications of influenza and colds, drugs are prescribed aimed at suppressing groups of pathogens. Such drugs are called broad-spectrum antibiotics. They help cure complications of influenza and acute respiratory infections. Cheap pills are as effective as expensive ones. These types of medications are available in pharmacies without a prescription. Before taking, read the instructions and read reviews about antibiotics. A good drug has few side effects. Broad-spectrum antibiotics:

• amosin;
• becampicillin;
• ospamox;
• ecoball;
• zinforo;
• kefselim;
• flamefix;
• cefodox;
• clacid;
• oletherine

Contents: Antipyretics Inexpensive drugs for gargling for ARVI Remedies for nasal congestion Cough medicines Antiviral drugs and their effects Antibacterial drugs Lozenges for sore throat Powders for influenza and ARVI Summing up Interesting video

Autumn is the time for colds, which can drag on until spring. Hypothermia, lack of vitamins, stress, fatigue, frequent presence in public places during quarantine - all this provokes ARVI.

Already at the initial stage of the disease, maximum efforts will be required to stop the progression of the disease. There are many inexpensive remedies for flu and colds that are very effective compared to their expensive counterparts. Below we will look at analogues of expensive medications for flu and colds.

Antipyretics

An antipyretic drug is a means of immediate relief when body temperature rises to more than 38 degrees. It is highly not recommended to lower the temperature, since its fluctuations are only a protective reaction of the body. Thanks to this reaction, special processes begin, such as an increase in the production of antibodies, interferons, and activation of macrophages.

All this provokes the creation of an unfavorable atmosphere for the life of viruses and bacteria. If the mark exceeds 38, then a person’s health is in serious danger. With prolonged heat, convulsions and hallucinations may appear. There is a risk of progression of heart disease and shortness of breath. Such conditions are especially dangerous for those patients who have chronic illnesses. That is why it is important to reduce the elevated temperature in a timely manner.

List of antipyretic tablets

In symptomatic treatment, special attention is paid to antipyretic drugs. Medicines can be either single-component or offered in a complex form. The most effective antipyretic inexpensive medications for colds and flu are:

Any fast-acting, inexpensive cold and flu medicine should only be prescribed by your doctor.

Inexpensive preparations for gargling for ARVI

If ARVI and influenza cause discomfort in the throat, soreness, pain, or dryness, then you will need to irrigate the throat to disinfect it at least 3-5 times a day. You can make the solution yourself by diluting a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of liquid. It is very effective to rinse with decoctions of chamomile, sage and calendula.

Among the cheap remedies for flu and colds, you can consider the following:

The greatest results can be expected if you take a comprehensive approach to solving the problem.

Nasal decongestants

Pharmacies offer a large selection of cheap medications for flu and colds, which are aimed at relieving nasal congestion. The most effective are:

You can combat dry nose with a saline solution. You can buy it at the pharmacy or prepare it yourself. Add a small spoon of salt to a glass of water and stir well.

It is better to use sea salt.

Cough medicines

With ARVI and influenza, cough and sore throat are often tormented. It is necessary to combat such a symptom according to a certain algorithm and it is strictly forbidden to suppress cough reflexes.

The fight against coughing during influenza and ARVI is carried out in 2 stages:

• sputum removal;
• liquefaction of sputum, which will make it possible to convert a dry cough into a wet one.

Mucolytics are effective and inexpensive medications for flu and colds. Medicines break the disulfide bonds of acidic polysaccharides. Thanks to this, sputum is diluted without increasing its volume. Pharmacies offer a large selection of drugs and the choice depends on the individual characteristics of the body.

Therefore, doctors often prescribe cough medications. The most effective are:

Drugs should be prescribed only by the attending physician, due to the characteristics of each patient’s body.

Antiviral drugs and their action

The market offers a large selection of antiviral drugs that have a positive effect on the body against flu and colds. The most effective inexpensive antiviral medications for colds and flu are:

There are also cyclic amines for flu and colds. The only antiviral drug in this group is Rimantadine. Its pharmacological effect is to suppress the specific reproduction of viral cells. The greatest effectiveness is observed at the initial stage of the disease. Characterized by antitoxic effects.

Herbal antiviral medicines for influenza

The market offers a wide selection of herbal antiviral inexpensive drugs for flu and colds. Each of them has a different mechanism of action and they are used only as prescribed by the attending physician. The most commonly prescribed drugs are:

1. Altabor. An inexpensive medicine for colds and flu, the antiviral effect of which is determined by the presence of dry alder extracts in its composition. Phenoacids are active against most types of virus.
2. Alpizarin. The composition of the drug includes extracts of yellowing kopeck, alpine, mango leaves and other plants. They help inhibit viral reproduction at an early stage in the development of a viral disease.

The treatment regimen is prescribed only by a doctor.

Antibacterial drugs

Antibacterial drugs are indispensable for influenza. The market offers a large selection of cheap tablets for colds and flu, which help to quickly cope with the pathology. The most common antibiotic is Amoxicillin. This is a cheap analogue of medications for flu and colds - Amoxiclav and Flemoxin. In case of complications, biseptol is also prescribed, less often - azithromycin.

All antibacterial drugs are characterized by a wide range of effects on bacteria and are prescribed by a doctor for inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract. The most effective and inexpensive medicines against flu and colds in this group are:

It is forbidden to prescribe antibiotics yourself, as their incorrect use can provoke the development of superinfection. This means that the number of pathogenic bacteria in the body increases sharply. The severity of the disease will worsen significantly. That is why self-medication is strictly contraindicated.

Lozenges for sore throat

With flu and colds, patients always report a sore throat. The pharmacological market offers a large selection of lozenges. Below is a list of cheap flu and cold medicines:

Such tablets are approved for use even among children, but prior consultation with a specialist will be required. Such inexpensive but effective drugs for flu and colds are indicated as part of complex therapy for the disease.

Powders for influenza and ARVI

The pharmacy offers a large selection of inexpensive cold and flu powders. Such drugs are characterized by pronounced antipyretic, antiphlogistic and analgesic effects.

Below is a list of inexpensive flu and cold medications:

Cold medicines in powder form are easy to use, which is why they are popular. But it is important to use them correctly. To do this, follow the instructions:

• open the bag and pour the contents into a glass;
• pour water at 55-60 degrees and mix thoroughly so that no lumps form;
• drink in small sips.

The medication is absorbed very quickly and shows results after just a quarter of an hour. The key advantages of this group of drugs for ARVI and influenza are:

• relieve coughing attacks;
• fight ailments, restoring efficiency;
• eliminate pain in the throat, joints and muscles;
• fight nasal congestion.

But such products should not be used by pregnant women and nursing mothers. It is allowed to prescribe powders to children from 15 years of age, and much less often from 12 years of age. Strict contraindications are:

• blood diseases;
• diseases of the cardiovascular system;
• acute forms of gastric ulcer;
• liver and kidney diseases;
• hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

Let's sum it up

To summarize, we can say that it is strictly forbidden to self-medicate for colds and flu, as this often provokes a complicated course of the disease. All expensive drugs that eliminate the symptoms of the disease are only analogues of simple remedies.

When choosing a particular drug, the nature of the disease, symptoms, and age of the patient are taken into account. But it is also important to take a comprehensive approach to solving the problem so that it does not recur.