Your complete cold and flu chemist check list

The following information does not replace or substitute medical advice. Always check with your doctor before taking any medication.

The common cold and influenza are common in Australia. During our flu season, which typically lasts from June to September, around 300,000 people visit their GP for advice and help.^1,2

While there are anti-viral medications that GPs can prescribe to eligible patients, most healthy adults will recover with no medical intervention.

However, your local chemist has some over-the-counter medications and other tools that can help to ease symptoms and make you more comfortable while your immune system battles the bug.

“Always check with your doctor first,” says Bupa GP Janice Tan.

Check out our chemist checklist for all your cold and flu needs.

While nothing in the chemist is going to help you get better any faster, there are some medications that might help ease your symptoms of cold and flu. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

A fever of up to 39°C can actually help your body fight off the infection that is making you ill, but can make you feel very unwell.⁵

“Paracetamol is the first choice as it’s gentler on the stomach than ibuprofen which you should avoid if you have stomach/kidney issues or are pregnant,” says Janice.

Headaches are common with the flu. “Paracetamol first,” says Janice. “Ibuprofen is better for sinus-related headaches. If sinus-driven, a decongestant may bring more respite than pain relief alone.”

Influenza can cause body aches and pains. “Ibuprofen is the best option because it targets the inflammatory cause, with paracetamol a good alternative,” says Janice. “Combination cold and flu medications are convenient if you have multiple symptoms.”

A stuffy, blocked nose is common if you have a cold. This can make breathing uncomfortable and make it hard to sleep. Decongestants in liquid, spray or drink varieties can help to ease symptoms for short periods. Do not use decongestant sprays for more than a few days as they can make the symptoms worse.⁶

“For nasal congestion, steam inhalation with eucalyptus or menthol drops can provide temporary but real relief. A menthol chest rub can be soothing, especially at night,” says Janice.

Coming in liquid or lozenges, a cough suppressant can help ease the symptoms of a dry cough.

“Avoid cough suppressants if your cough is productive (wet). You need to shift that mucus,” says Janice.

If you have a cold, chances are you’ll get a runny nose, sneezing or watery eyes. Taking an antihistamine can help by drying up the nasal passages.⁶

Even if medication isn’t for you, it’s worth checking the chemist aisles for some extra bits that can help make you more comfortable.

While Vitamin C won’t stop you from catching a cold, some studies show that when regularly taken Vitamin C could help reduce the severity of cold symptoms if you get sick.³ Most chemists stock tablet, chewable versions and soluble vitamin C.

Continually blowing your nose or sneezing can result in a sore, red, irritated skin. Most chemists will stock a variety of soft tissues that can help reduce the risk of irritation. These might include those infused with aloe and vitamins for extra softness or eucalyptus for a cleansing menthol fragrance.

Suitable for people over the age of one, honey has been shown to help reduce cough severity and ease sore throat symptoms.4 Can be taken by the spoonful or mixed with warm water.