Cold & Flu Medicines

Cold and flu medicine to soothe uncomfortable symptoms

When cold and flu strike, it helps to have the right products on hand to help alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms. At Healthylife, you’ll find a wide range of products designed to ease your symptoms and support recovery.

Our range includes over-the-counter medications like paracetamol and ibuprofen, decongestants, saline nasal sprays, throat gargles and soothing throat lozenges.

Explore our cold and flu medicines and ensure you’re prepared for cold and flu season.

What's the difference between cold and flu?

The common cold and the flu are both respiratory infections but differ in severity and symptoms. The common cold is generally milder and characterised by symptoms like a runny nose, mild fever, and cough. It typically resolves within a week and rarely causes complications.

In contrast, the flu is caused by the influenza virus and is usually more severe. It presents with high fever, muscle pains, headache and tiredness, often leading to more serious complications and requiring longer recovery times.

While both conditions are viral, the flu is usually a more serious illness, and your healthcare professional may prescribe stronger flu medicine.

Which medicines can relieve cold and flu symptoms?

Several over-the-counter and prescription medicines are available to relieve symptoms of colds and flu. Paracetamol and ibuprofen are commonly used to reduce fever and alleviate pain. Decongestant tablets and nasal sprays may help relieve a blocked nose, though they should be used with caution and generally not for extended periods. Saline nasal sprays and drops may be safer options for congestion and are generally suitable for frequent use across all age groups.

To help soothe a sore throat, lozenges, gargles and sprays containing different active ingredients may provide relief.

While many cold and flu tablets are available, their effectiveness is not strongly supported by evidence, and they should be used carefully, especially in children.

Always consult your healthcare professional to choose the right cold and flu medicine.

How long do colds and flu last?

The duration of a cold or flu varies from person to person. Generally, the common cold’s symptoms are mild and resolve within three to seven days.

In contrast, the flu, caused by the influenza virus, tends to be more severe and can last about one to two weeks. The initial symptoms of a cold often include a runny nose and sore throat, while flu symptoms start more abruptly with high fever, muscle pain, and lethargy.

Recovery times can vary depending on individual health, the specific virus involved, and whether complications arise.

Can I exercise whilst I am sick?

Exercising when sick should be approached with caution. While moderate exercise may help support the immune system, intense or prolonged physical activity isn’t usually advised.

If you have mild symptoms like a runny nose or sore throat, gentle to moderate physical activity may be beneficial. However, if you experience more severe symptoms, especially those affecting your whole body, such as fever, extreme tiredness, or widespread muscle aches, it is advisable to rest and avoid exercise.

Always consider the intensity and duration of the exercise and consult your healthcare professional for advice.

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Cold & Flu Medicines (168)

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Candy Cottage Eucalyptus Drops Jar 250g

Bonningtons Irish Moss Cough Syrup 200ml

Anticol Extra Strong Lozenges 10 Pack

Nestle Butter Menthol Honey Centre 10 Lozenges

Sinupret Forte Sinusitis Relief 20 Tablets

Bosistos Eucalyptus Throat Lozenges Sugar Free 50g

Gold Cross Chesty Cough Senega & Ammonia 500ml

Thompsons Manuka Sore Throat Spray 25ml

Nestle Butter Menthol Original 10 Lozenges

Comvita Olive Leaf Lozenges 40 Lozenges

Natural Life Propolis Candy Lemon & Honey 40 Lozenges

Anticol Throat Lozenges Original 10 Pack

Sambucol Immune Defence Lozenges 20 Pack

Johnsons Eucalyptus Drops Sugar Free 50g

Betadine Ready to Use Sore Throat Gargle 120ml

Sambucol Cold & Flu Forte 24 Capsules

Vicks VapoDrops Original Menthol Lozenges 42 Pack

Sambucol Immune Defence Forte Liquid 250ml

Anticol Original Multipack 3 x 10 Lozenges

Ease a Cold Cough Cold & Flu Day & Night 24 Capsules

Difflam Sore Throat Lozenges Sugar Free Honey & Lemon 32 Pack

Ki Cold & Flu Attack Formula 30 Tablets

Ki Allergy & Hayfever Control Formula 60 Tablets

Strepsils Plus Blocked Nose Relief Menthol Eucalyptus 36 Lozenges

Cold and flu medicine to soothe uncomfortable symptoms

What's the difference between cold and flu?

Which medicines can relieve cold and flu symptoms?

How long do colds and flu last?

Can I exercise whilst I am sick?