Cold and flu: what actually works

Every cold season brings a wall of remedies promising fast relief. Here is a clear, pharmacist-written look at what the evidence supports, what to skip, and when symptoms need medical attention.

Cold or flu? How to tell

Colds usually come on gradually with a sore throat, runny nose and mild cough. Flu tends to hit suddenly with fever, body aches, headache and exhaustion. Both are viral, so antibiotics do not help either of them.

Remedies with good evidence

Rest and fluids remain the foundation. For symptom relief, paracetamol or ibuprofen ease aches and fever, decongestant sprays clear a blocked nose for a few days, and soothing lozenges calm a sore throat. Vitamin C and zinc may slightly shorten a cold for some people, especially when started early.

What does not really work

Antibiotics do nothing for viral colds and flu and should not be taken without a clear bacterial infection. Many heavily marketed combination products simply repeat ingredients you already have. If in doubt, ask a pharmacist before stacking remedies.

How to prevent spreading it

Wash hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay home where possible while you are most infectious. An annual flu vaccine is worthwhile for older adults, pregnant women and people with long-term conditions.

When to see a doctor

Seek medical advice if you have difficulty breathing, a high fever that does not settle, symptoms lasting beyond ten days or getting worse, or if you have a long-term condition that makes infections riskier.