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Introduction:

Each year, millions of people contract influenza and flu-like infections in the United States, resulting in over 200,000 hospitalizations and approximately 20,000 deaths. Most recover from these illnesses in about one to two weeks; however, the elderly and people with chronic health conditions often develop serious complications. There are three common therapeutic approaches used to counter this:

  • Vaccines: formulated in an attempt to match the current year’s viral antigenic shift.
  • Antiviral drugs: used to interfere with viral replication and propagation.
  • Symptomatic drugs: are the most common form of treatment, which are mostly fever reducers along with drugs that help ease the aches and pains.

Oscillococcinum by Boiron (Oscillo)

Oscillococcinum® (O-SILL-O-COX-SEE-NUM) is the number one flu medicine of France, and it’s becoming increasingly popular in the United States. This homeopathic medicine has been shown in clinical studies to decrease the duration and intensity of flu symptoms. Because of its safety, Oscillo is a good first line defense in treating the flu.

Other Effective Homeopathic Medicine for Treating the Flu

The following table compares and contrasts the common therapeutic approaches with Oscillococcinum in flu treatment and prevention:

Product How it Works Advantages Side Effect & Disadvantages
Oscillococcinum® (O-SILL-O-COX-SEE-NUM) also commonly called Oscillo® Decreases the duration and intensity of influenza symptoms, including fever, chills, body aches and pains. Can be used with any existing medical condition or medication. No known drug interactions or side effects. Convenient dosing and economical. None
Antivirals
Zanamivir (Relenza®) Possible inhibition of virus neuraminidase and alteration of virus aggregation and release. Shortens duration of flu symptoms if taken before the second day of symptoms. Nausea, diarrhea and sinusitis may occur. Inconvenient inhaler administration. Requires a prescription from MD
Oseltamivir phosphate(Tamiflu®) Possible inhibition of virus neuraminidase and alteration of virus aggregation and release. Shortens duration of flu symptoms if taken within 40 hours of symptoms Nausea and vomiting may occur. Requires a prescription from MD.
Oseltamivir phosphate (Tamiflu®) Possible inhibition of virus neuraminidase and alteration of virus aggregation and release. Shortens duration of flu symptoms if taken within 40 hours of symptoms Nausea and vomiting may occur. Requires a prescription from MD.
Rimantadine (Flumdine®) Amantadine (Symmetrel®) Inhibits type A virus replication at the very early stages. Reserved for high-risk patients when vaccination is not possible. Insomnia and nausea may occur. Requires a prescription from MD.
Vaccine For prophylactic use only Best coverage for exposure or high-risk individuals. Not a cure. Injection needs to be administered by a licensed health care professional.
Herbs & Vitamins
Echinacea angustifolia and purpurea Non specific immunostimulant Existing clinical studies show controversial results Do not use for more that 10 days (curative) or 3 weeks (prophylactic).  Use with caution when kidney function is impaired or when allergic to herbs from the daisy family.  Preventive efficacy not clearly demonstrated.
Vitamin C Stimulates the immune system Nontoxic. may decrease severity and duration of flu symptoms. Overuse may cause diarrhea.
Symptomatic medicines for fever & aches and pains.
Aspirin, NSAIDs Anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic action Temporary reduction of symptoms Symptomatic activity only. causes gastrointestinal problems.  Interacts with other drugs and medications.
Acetaminophen Antipyretic and analgesic action Temporary reduction of symptoms Symptomatic activity only. Interacts with hepatotoxic drugs. use with caution if kidney function is impaired.