Theraflu

Theraflu is a cold and flu medicine that may relieve symptoms including congestion, sore throat, aching, and fever. Some products may also relieve runny nose and coughing.

There are 3 active ingredients in Theraflu that help to reduce your cold or flu symptoms. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer, diphenhydramine is a cough suppressant and antihistamine, and phenylephrine is a nasal decongestant. Together, they all work to help fight any cold symptoms you may have.

Before using any Theraflu product, always read the packaging instructions carefully as dosing directions can be different for each medicine. The tablets for each formula usually have a unique appearance, so you easily know which formula you're taking when using products that contain a daytime and nighttime formula in one box. However, you'll still want to be careful to avoid taking a nighttime formula during the day when you need to be alert.

Theraflu medicines are typically suitable for adults and children over 12, but check the specific formula before giving it to your little ones as not all formulas may be okay for kids. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any of the brand's products if you have a chronic medical condition or already take any medications regularly.

Theraflu relieves symptoms for up to 4 hours. You can take Theraflu liquids every 4 hours but no more than 5 doses in 24 hours.

Nighttime cold and flu medicines can help you sleep better, but they're not always the best choice if you must remain alert during the day or you need to drive. Fortunately, many Theraflu products are nondrowsy, allowing you to stay focused at work or other daytime activities.

Theraflu ingredients are listed on the back of each product. However, you can also tell at a glance whether a specific medicine may cause drowsiness, as the packaging states if the product is a daytime or nighttime formulation. Some products include both formulas, which might be ideal for all-day relief. 

Theraflu products help provide about 6 hours of relief from cold symptoms but may work continuously when re-dosed as directed. However, the number of doses in the package can vary depending on the specific product. For example, Theraflu teas, such as the brand's Max Strength Nighttime flu-relief tea, typically contain six or 12 individual packets, so taking these teas up to three times daily as instructed can help ease symptoms for 2-4 days.

Tablet-based Theraflu medicines often come in larger packs, such as the 40-caplet Max Strength day and nighttime formula. Many of these products may provide a sufficient quantity to last up to a week when taken as directed, which can help you get over the worst part of a cold or flu. See your doctor if symptoms worsen during treatment or persist for more than a week.