What kinds of Flu Pills your doctor may prescribe

Tamiflu
The flu pill of the past two years that is very popular with helping you get over the flu is called Tamiflu. You have 48 hours from when you first realize your getting the flu to call your doctor for a prescription of this or any other kind of flu medication because if you wait any longer than that, the pill will not work. Tamiflu attacks the influenza virus within your system and will stop it from spreading any further inside your body. Tamiflu fights the infection that is caused by the flu virus. Tamiflu reaches all sites of infection and it targets one or both of the surface structures of the flu virus called a neuraminidase protein. This protein is in all common strains of influenza. If Tamiflu is taken within 48 hours, it goes right to the infected sight and will inhibit neuraminidase protein, once this is stopped, the virus can no longer infect new cells, allowing you to start feeling better. Tamiflu can be taken to prevent catching the flu.

Symmetrel (Amantadine)
This drug too prohibits the replication of viruses in cells and should also be taken within 48 hours after contracting the flu virus. This drug was later found to improve the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Flumadine
Also know as Rimantadine, this pill is used to prevent and treat certain flu infections. This medicine can also be given along with flu shots but does not work on colds or even on some flu viruses so it’s not one of the favorite flu pills.