Introduction
Influenza caused by influenza viruses is often accompanied by a pronounced feeling of illness. High fever, listlessness, headaches and aching limbs as well as involvement of the respiratory tract occur suddenly. While the increased body temperature drops again after two to three days, the remaining symptoms gradually subside after another two to four days.
In addition, the feeling of illness persists for a longer time. Not in all cases are the symptoms equally pronounced and can be misinterpreted. Otitis media is a common flu symptom in children.
In view of the pronounced symptoms, the focus is on alleviating them. In the first two days after the onset of the disease and a proven influenza virus, so-called neuraminidase inhibitors can be taken. However, since their effect is controversial, it is recommended that the individual symptoms be treated with medication.
Definition – Active ingredient groups
The following medications for influenza are probably among the best known:
- Vetch medinait®
- Boxagrippal®
- Grippostad®
- Meditonsin
- Neo Angin®
- Mucoangin®
- Lemocin®
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen® is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and belongs to the group of non-opioid analgesics. In addition to its pain-reducing effect, it inhibits inflammation and also has a fever-reducing effect. Cyclooxygenases are enzymes whose task is the production of prostaglandins (these belong to the eicosanoids).
These mediate an inflammatory reaction. Ibuprofen® intervenes in this process by inhibiting the cyclooxygenases. Ibuprofen® is available up to a dosage of 400 mg in pharmacies without a prescription and can be taken in solid or liquid form.
The anti-inflammatory component can only be expected from a daily dose of 2400 mg. More detailed information is available at: Ibuprofen®. Ibuprofen® is used particularly in the treatment of mild to moderate pain. Areas of application include rheumatoid arthritis, headache, toothache and musculoskeletal disorders.
Ibuprofen® can also be taken in the context of flu-like complaints such as headaches and aching limbs as well as to reduce fever. Ibuprofen® should not be taken in case of known intolerance to the active substance itself or other NSAIDs. If bleeding or ulcers have occurred in the gastrointestinal tract in the past, Ibuprofen® should not be taken.
The same applies to bleeding that is still active, known liver and kidney diseases and severe functional impairment of the heart. People under the age of 15 years should not be treated with Ibuprofen®. Due to its side effects in the gastrointestinal tract, Ibuprofen® is only suitable for long-term use in combination with a gastric acid inhibitor.
Diarrhea and nausea, digestive problems and stomach pain are among the most common side effects. Headaches and visual disturbances are less frequent. In combination with anticoagulants, such as Marcumar, there is an increased risk of bleeding, since Ibuprofen® itself also counteracts coagulation.
When ASA is taken therapeutically, the blood-thinning effect can be reduced. Drugs with a small range of dosage variation can also interact. These include lithium and digoxin, for example.
Taking alcohol and Ibuprofen® at the same time can cause severe side effects and interactions. More detailed information is available at: Ibuprofen and alcohol. Ipuprofen® can be taken until the last third of pregnancy. Ibuprofen® is suitable for symptom relief during the breastfeeding period.
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