Children and teenagers shouldn't be given aspirin. Antitussives tell your brain to stop coughing. Don't take an antitussive if you're coughing up mucus. Expectorants help thin mucus so it can be coughed up more easily. Oral decongestants shrink the nasal passages and reduce congestion.
Some prescription medicines can help flu symptoms.
These medicines may help reduce the severity of symptoms if they are started soon after you begin to get sick. These medicines come as pills or as an inhaler. Your best bet, though, is to prevent the flu with good handwashing and by getting a flu shot. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, and avoid touching your eyes or nose. It's a very good idea to get a flu shot every year if you fall into any of the groups listed in the box below.