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Unfortunately, we all suffer with colds or flu at one time or another. On average, adults in the US will get the common cold two to three times a year – and around 8% will get the flu once a year.i, ii

Being armed with the correct information about preventing and treating cold and flu symptoms can help to reduce your risk of getting one of these viruses, and support you on the road to recovery. Below are the most commonly asked questions about colds and flu. Essential cold and flu information, like when and how you’re most likely to catch a cold or flu, how to prevent cold and flu, cold and flu symptom treatment and relief, and which Theraflu products can best help relieve your symptoms, is all explained below.

Want even more detailed cold and flu information? Just watch the handy explanation videos that accompany each question, brought to you by Theraflu. 

Cold and Flu Prevention Information

  • 1 What is the flu (influenza)?

    The influenza virus, commonly called the flu, is a contagious respiratory infection. Unlike the common cold, the flu causes severe illness and life-threatening complications in many people.

    Symptoms include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches. Children can have additional gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which are uncommon in adults.

    CDC, "Seasonal Influenza Q&A", http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/disease.hTM, 8/13

  • 2 How does the cold and flu spread?

    The common cold and flu are mainly spread through coughs and sneezes, which propel droplets up to four feet in the air. These can then land in the mouth, nose or eyes of people nearby. Alternatively, viruses can spread when someone touches these droplets and then touches their mouth or nose.

    Most healthy adults may infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop, and up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick. That means that you will be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.

    CDC, "How Flu Spreads", http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/spread.hTM, 8/13

  • 3 How common is the flu?

    On average, approximately 5% to 20% of U.S. residents get the flu, and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized for flu-related complications each year. Additionally, about 36,000 Americans die on average per year due to flu complications.

    CDC, "Key Facts about Influenza (Flu) & Flu Vaccine", http://www.cdc.gov/flu/keyfacts.hTM, 8/13

  • 4 Can I catch the same cold or flu twice?

    Because the viruses that cause a cold or the flu can mutate, you can catch them more than once, and pass them on to your friends, family or work colleagues. Conversely you can pick up the same cold or flu a week or two later.

    Why? That’s because the initial virus has mutated slightly and the immunity that your body generated to fight the virus last time around will no longer be effective against the new strain.

    RI.gov, "Health Outlines Myths and Facts About Flu and Flu Shots", http://www.ri.gov/press/view/18359, 8/13

  • 5 When is cold and flu season?

    Cold and flu season occurs yearly during autumn and winter, generally peaking in January and February.

    CDC, "Cold Verses Flu", http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/coldflu.hTM, 8/13

  • 6 If I have a cold or flu, what can I do to stop it from spreading?

    If you have a cold or the flu, it’s a good idea whenever possible to stay at home. Cover your mouth and nose or place your head into the crook of your elbow when you cough or sneeze, if you don’t have a tissue. It also helps to regularly wipe down surfaces, telephones, doorknobs, and keyboards with alcohol-based sanitizers. You should also wash your hands regularly.

    Ask anyone who’s caring for you to do the same. Use an alcohol-based hand gel if you don’t have access to water and dispose of any used tissues immediately.

    CDC, "How Flu Spreads", http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/spread.hTM, 8/13

    CDC, "The Flu: A Guide For Parents", http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/updated/fluguideforparents_trifold.pdf, 8/13

  • 7 Who should get the flu vaccine?

    All persons aged 6 months and older should be vaccinated annually; especially people who:

    • Are 50 years of age and older
    • Have chronic pulmonary disorders -- including asthma, cardiovascular disorders -- except hypertension, renal, hepatic, neurologic hematologic, or metabolic disorders (including diabetes mellitus)
    • Are immunosuppressed
    • Are or will be pregnant during the influenza season

    Or are household contact and caregivers of children aged younger than 5 years and adults aged 50 years and older

  • 8 Is there a cold vaccine?

    No. It’s a common mistake that people refer to the flu vaccine as a cold vaccine. But there are no vaccines for the common cold because there are a large number of viruses that cause the common cold. And since they can mutate, any vaccine would most likely be out of date by the time it was distributed among the population.

  • 9 What is the flu vaccine and when should I get it?

    There are two kinds of flu vaccine available in the United States:

    1. The "flu shot" — an inactivated vaccine containing killed viruses that are given with a  needle. The flu shot is approved for use in people older than 6 months, including healthy  people and people with chronic medical conditions.
    2. The nasal-spray flu vaccine — a vaccine made with live, weakened flu viruses that do not  cause the  flu (sometimes called LAIV for "live attenuated influenza vaccine"). LAIV is  approved for use in healthy people 5 years to 49 years of age who are not pregnant.

    It’s best to get vaccinated in October or November, but influenza vaccinations still offer benefits when received later in the season December or later.

  • 10 Can I get the flu from the injected virus?

    Injectable influenza virus vaccines are made from influenza viruses that have been inactivated or killed—an inactivated virus cannot give you the flu.

Cold and Flu Symptom Information

  • Flu VS Cold. What’s the difference?

    Both cold and flu can share a similar range of symptoms, but the rapid onset of the flu is one indicator that can help us differentiate between the two illnesses.

    Both the flu and the common cold stem from respiratory tract infections in your throat, nose and sinuses – but ultimately manifest in a few different ways.

    You may be able to identify it as the flu if you’re experiencing fever, body aches, headaches and chills, or if you’re feeling weak or fatigued.

    Common cold identifiers can be a runny nose, watery eyes, chest and sinus congestion coupled with sneezing and coughing. When compared to the flu, colds are often milder while symptoms appear less abruptly.

    Of course, we recommend talking to your doctor as soon as you can when you begin to experience symptoms, and to get tested within 4 days or as close to symptom onset as possible. 

    CDC, Flu Symptoms & Diagnosis

    https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/

    CDC, Cold Versus Flu

    https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/coldflu.htm

    CDC, “Rapid Diagnostic Testing for Influenza: Information for Clinical Laboratory Directors”

    https://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/diagnosis/rapidlab.htm

  • 11 How do I know if I have the flu?

    A doctor’s exam may be needed to tell whether you have developed a cold, or flu related complications. You should be tested as close as is possible to when symptoms appear— usually within 4-5 days.

    If you develop flu-like symptoms, especially if you are at high risk for flu related complications, consult your healthcare provider.

    CDC, “Flu Symptoms & Severity”, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/symptoms.htm, 8/13

    CDC, “Rapid Diagnostic Testing for Influenza: Information for Clinical Laboratory Directors”, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/diagnosis/rapidlab.htm, 8/13

    CDC, “What You Should Know About Flu Antiviral Drugs”, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/antivirals/whatyoushould.htm, 8/13

    CDC, “Symptom Relief”, http://www.cdc.gov/getsmart/antibiotic-use/symptom-relief.html, 813

  • 12 How do I treat my cold or flu symptoms?

    To treat a cold or the flu, it’s a good idea to drink lots of fluids. Be sure to avoid drinks like coffee, tea, and colas, as they contain caffeine that can dehydrate you.

    Your body also needs energy to fight off infection. If you’ve lost your appetite, try eating simple foods like white rice or soup.

    Multi-symptom cold & flu remedies like Theraflu® products contain a combination of active ingredients for symptom relief. Symptom relief will vary by product.

    Never give aspirin to children or teenagers who have flu-like symptoms, particularly a fever.

    Mayo Clinic, “Diseases and Conditions”, http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-cold/expert-answers/phlegm/FAQ-20058015, 8/13

    CDC, “How Flu Spreads”, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/spread.htm, 8/13

    CDC, “The Flu: Caring for Someone Sick at Home”, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/homecare/index.htm, 8/13

  • 13 How do I treat my nasal and sinus congestion symptoms?

    For nasal and sinus congestion, decongestants such as phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are used for the temporary relief of stuffiness in the nose caused by allergies, colds, or flu. Saline nasal sprays can also open breathing passages and may be used freely.

    Theraflu® Day & Night Value Pack, provides powerful Day & Night relief from your worst cold & flu symptoms. The daytime formula treats: nasal congestion, sore throat, cough, headache, body ache, fever and sinus congestion. The nighttime formula treats: sore throat, cough, headache, body ache, fever, runny nose and sneezing.

    Do not take both products at the same time or take more than 5 doses in total in any 24-hour period. This product is available in 12 total packets.

  • 14 How do I treat my fever and sore throat symptoms?

    For fever and sore throat, pain relievers such as acetaminophen are used to reduce fever and to relieve mild to moderate pain.

    Theraflu® ExpressMax® Daytime Severe Cold & Cough combines maximum-strength* medicines available without a prescription, to relieve your worst symptoms so you can feel better fast. This product also treats: nasal congestion, cough, body ache, headache and sinus congestion.

    *Maximum-strength per 4-hour dose.

  • 15 How do I treat my cough symptoms?

    For coughs, antitussive medications such as dextromethorphan and diphenhydramine are used to help relieve coughs due to colds and flu.

    Theraflu® ExpressMax® Daytime Severe Cold & Cough combines maximum-strength* medicines available without a prescription to relieve your worst symptoms so you can feel better fast. This product also treats: nasal congestion, cough, body ache, headache and sinus congestion.

    Maximum-strength per 4 hour dose.

  • 16 How do I treat my runny nose, sneezing, watery and itchy eye symptoms?

    For runny nose, sneezing, watery and itchy eyes, antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine and diphenhydramine help relieve itchy, watery eyes; sneezing, and runny nose caused by allergies, hay fever, and the common cold.

    Theraflu® Nighttime Multi-Symptom Severe Cold with Lipton® Flavors relieves runny nose, sneezing, watery and itchy eyes, coughing, nasal congestion, body aches, sore throat, fever, headache and sinus congestion with the power you’ve come to expect from Theraflu® brand products and the great taste of Lipton® Green Tea & Honey Lemon Flavors.

  • 17 Do I need to take antibiotics for my cold or flu?

    Because antibiotics kill bacteria and colds and the flu are caused by viruses, under normal circumstances, you should not need to take antibiotics for a cold or flu. If you develop symptoms not normally associated with a cold or the flu, please see your healthcare professional.

    Your doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics to clear up a bacterial infection in your ears, sinuses, throat or chest, which may be related to having a cold or the flu.

    CDC, “Preventing the Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs”, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits.htm, 8/13

  • 18 How soon can I expect to feel relief from cold and flu symptoms?

    When it comes to a cold, most people recover within a few days without requiring medical attention. When it comes to the flu, most people recover within a week without requiring medical attention. Response will vary for everyone.

    Theraflu® cold and flu medicines will help ease the symptoms, but they will not cure or shorten the duration of your cold or flu. Contact your healthcare professional if symptoms get worse or don’t start to improve after one week.

    CDC, “The Flu: A Guide For Parents”, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/updated/fluguideforparents_trifold.pdf, 8/13

  • 19 I have a cold or the flu, how long will I be contagious?

    If you catch the flu, you’re contagious for one to two days before you start to show symptoms and for five to seven days after becoming sick. That means you may be able to pass on the flu to someone before you know you are sick as well as while you are sick.

    As for a cold, you are most contagious for the first 2 or 3 days. A cold is usually not contagious after the first week.

    MedlinePlus, “Common Cold”, http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/commoncold.html#cat1, 8/13

    CDC, “How Flu Spreads”, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/spread.htm, 8/13

    CDC, “Preventing the Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs”, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits.htm

    CDC, “The flu. Caring for someone sick at home”, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/updated/influenza_flu_homecare_guide.pdf, 8/13

  • 20 Can the flu lead to serious health complications or death?

    Of the 5 to 20 percent of the people in the United States that catches the flu each year, 200,000 result in hospitalizations. Some of the complications caused by flu include bacterial pneumonia and dehydration.

    High-risk patients include children younger than age two, adults age 65 or older, and people of any age with certain medical conditions, such as chronic heart, lung, kidney, liver, blood or metabolic diseases (such as diabetes), or weakened immune systems.

Covid FAQs

  • 21 Can Theraflu products be used to treat symptoms of COVID-19?

    Currently there are no over the counter medicines specifically indicated or approved for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19. Where appropriate, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) do advise appropriate use of over-the-counter medicines to alleviate mild symptoms of COVID-19. These may include cough, fever, headache, runny nose, congestion and sore throat pain.

    While Theraflu products are indicated for relief of the aforementioned symptoms, Theraflu products are not specifically indicated for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19. COVID-19 is caused by a specific coronavirus, belonging to a group of viruses which can also result in less serious cold and flu-like illnesses. Because of this, some of the milder symptoms may be common to both COVID-19 and cold or flu and may be similarly relieved by over-the-counter cold and flu remedies such as Theraflu.  The Theraflu family of products contain several active ingredients which are commonly used to treat symptoms of respiratory viral infections.

    Theraflu products should always be used only as directed. If you have questions or concerns about your symptoms or COVID-19, please discuss with your healthcare professional. You can also visit the CDC website for helpful information by visiting the link https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html

  • 22 What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

    People with COVID-19 report a wide range of symptoms, from mild symptoms to severe illness. These symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. These symptoms include, but are not limited to cough, fever, headache, runny nose, congestion and sore throat pain. Many of these symptoms may be reported by people with COVID-19. Not all people exposed to the virus will show or feel symptoms.

    The CDC advises self-care for COVID-19 sufferers with milder symptoms, this includes getting rest, staying hydrated and taking over-the-counter medicines such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to feel better. If you have further questions about your symptoms or COVID-19, please discuss with your healthcare professional. You can also visit the CDC website for more helpful information. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html

  • 23 How does COVID-19 and the Flu differ?

    The flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses caused by different viruses. Flu is caused by being infected with influenza viruses (A, B, and C), while COVID-19 is caused by being infected with a novel coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. Some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are very similar i.e. fever, fatigue, cough, body aches making it hard to tell the difference based on symptom presentation alone. Testing may be required to make a diagnosis.

    Although flu and COVID-19 share many characteristics, they also have some key differences. More severe symptoms such as very high fever, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, vomiting and diarrhea are not classic symptoms of flu, but may be associated with COVID-19. COVID-19 can be particularly severe in people with pre-existing illness or risk factors. While more is learned every day, there is still a lot that is unknown about COVID-19 and the virus that causes it. The differences in symptoms listed above is not an exhaustive list of all possible symptoms that may occur. If you have further questions or concerns about your symptoms or COVID-19, please discuss with your healthcare professional. You can also visit the CDC website for more helpful information by clicking the link https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19.htm#table

  • 24 How to protect yourself and others?

    COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets, typically when an infected individual coughs, talks or sneezes. The best way to protect yourself and others is to avoid being exposed to the virus. Important to note that asymptomatic people can also spread the virus. The CDC recommends key precautions;

    • get the COVID-19 Vaccine and booster as applicable
    • frequent hand washing with soap and water
    • using a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol when soap and water is not available
    • avoiding close contact with people who are sick
    • give a 6 feet distance whenever possible, especially with people living outside of your household
    • covering your mouth and nose with a mask when around others
    • covering coughs and sneezes
    • avoid touching eyes, mouth and nose with unwashed hands
    • cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces daily

    The CDC also recommends getting a flu vaccine to reduce the risk of flu illness and subsequent complications. It can also help save healthcare resources for the care of COVID-19 patients.

     

    Closely monitoring your health. If you have further questions about how to prevent getting sick, please discuss with your healthcare professional. You can also visit the CDC website for more helpful information. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html

  • 25 How does COVID-19 and the common cold differ?

    The common cold and COVID-19 are both respiratory viral infections. The common cold is the broad term used for a respiratory viral infection resulting in a self-limiting illness with generally mild symptoms.The predominant cause of the common cold is the rhinovirus, but some coronaviruses can also cause the common cold. COVID-19 is caused by being infected with a novel coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. Some symptoms occur in both the common cold and COVID-19 (such as cough, fever, runny nose or congestion), but there are key differences. More severe symptoms such as very high fever, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, vomiting and diarrhea are not classic symptoms of the common cold, but may be associated with COVID-19. COVID-19 can be particularly severe in people with pre-existing illness or risk factors. If you have further questions about your symptoms or COVID-19, please discuss with your healthcare professional. You can also visit the CDC website for more helpful information. https://www.cdc.gov/features/rhinoviruses/index.html

  • 26 Are masks effective and should my child wear one?

    The CDC recommends all people 2 years of age and older to wear a mask in public settings to prevent respiratory droplets from traveling into the air and onto other people.  The mask serves as a simple barrier to source control respiratory droplets when the person wearing it coughs, sneezes, talks, or raises their voice.  COVID-19 spreads mainly among people in close contact with one another so the use of masks is particularly important in settings where social distancing (about 6 feet) is difficult to maintain.

    For more information on mask effectiveness and who should wear one, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-guidance.html#evidence-effectiveness.

  • 27 What should I do if I travel during the COVID-19 pandemic?

    The best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 is to stay at home and minimize your exposure to public settings.  If you do travel, the CDC advises appropriate steps to protect yourself and others:

    -       Wear a mask

    -       Avoid close contact by staying at least 6 feet apart from anyone who is not from your household

    -       Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol)

    -       Avoid contact with anyone who is sick

    -       Avoid touching your face

    Do not travel if you are sick or have been around someone who has been sick in the past 14 days. Some state, local, and territorial governments have testing, stay-at-home, or quarantine requirements for those who have recently traveled.  Check local public health websites for information on requirements before you travel.  For more information on traveling, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-during-covid19.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Ftravelers%2Ftravel-in-the-us.html.

  • 28 How can I stay safe during gatherings?

    If you’re hosting or attending a gathering, take appropriate measures to best protect yourself and others:

    -       Do not host or attend a social gathering if you are sick or have had close contact with someone who is sick.

    -       Remind guests to stay home if they are sick

    -       Keep events outdoor when possible. If outdoors is not feasible, make sure the space is well ventilated.

    -       Limit the number of attendees so that safe social distancing (at least 6 feet) can be maintained between people not from the same household

    -       Wear masks when less than 6 feet apart or indoors.

    -       Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer

    -       Limit the number of people cooking, serving food, or in food preparation areas.

    -       Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces and any shared items between uses.

    States and localities have varying rules, regulations and laws regarding events and gatherings.  Check local health sites for restrictions and guidance. For additional measures or information on social gatherings, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html

  • 29 How does the COVID-19 virus spread?

    The virus that causes COVID-19 is believed to spread mostly from respiratory droplets between people in close contact with one another (less than 6 feet).  These droplets or small particles are produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, sings, talks, or breathes.

    It is also possible that the droplets can land on surfaces, be touched by a person who then touches their own face.  This is not thought to be the main way the virus transmits.

    For more information about the spread of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/how-covid-spreads.html

  • 30 Is takeout food safe during the pandemic?

    The CDC suggests the risk of getting COVID-19 from eating or handling food is very low.  While it is possible for a person to get COVID-19 by touching a surface that has the virus on it and then touching their own face, coronaviruses are believed to primarily be transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets.

    Currently, there is no evidence that food is associated with the virus that causes COVID-19.  This includes packaged food, food cooked at home, and food served at restaurants.

    To learn more about how to protect yourself while dining, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/food-and-COVID-19.html.

References:

  1. Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms- testing/symptoms.html (Accessed: 18 November 2022)

Theraflu Products Information

  • 31 How Do Theraflu Hot Liquids Work?

    With a blend of cold and flu fighting ingredients, Theraflu Hot Liquid powders target and attack your worst symptoms fast--including nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, body ache, fever, and sinus congestion. Some products will also relieve runny nose, sneezing and coughing.

    Theraflu powders dissolve quickly in water and are ready to take in an instant. And thanks to the steamy vapors, you can start to feel the warmth of Theraflu Hot Liquid before your first sip.

  • 32 What is a Warm Wave of Powerful Relief?

    A warm wave of powerful relief is just what you’ll experience with every cup of Theraflu Hot Liquid. Not only does Theraflu Hot Liquid target and attack your worst cold and flu symptoms fast, but Theraflu Hot Liquid powders also dissolve quickly in water and are ready to take in an instant. And thanks to the steamy vapors, you can start to feel the warmth of Theraflu Hot Liquid before your first sip.

  • 33 Why should I use Theraflu Hot Liquids?

    If you’re someone who appreciates the comfort of a warm soothing beverage, and the power of cold and flu fighting ingredients, Theraflu Hot Liquids may be for you.

  • 34 What symptoms do Theraflu products relieve?

    Theraflu products can help relieve your most severe cold and flu symptoms including nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, body ache, fever, and sinus congestion. Some products will also relieve runny nose, sneezing and coughing.

  • 35 What forms do Theraflu products come in?

    Theraflu products are available in a powder that dissolves in water; PowerPods that are compatible with most single-serve coffee makers; a variety of ExpressMax syrups; as well as ExpressMax caplets. Each form has a day or night option that can be used to treat a multitude of severe cold and flu symptoms.

  • 36 How do I make Theraflu hot liquid powder?

    To make Theraflu hot liquid powder, you should dissolve the contents of one packet into 8 oz. of hot water. Make sure to sip while hot and consume the entire drink within 10-15 minutes. If you’re using a microwave, add contents of one packet to 8 oz. of cool water; stir briskly before and after heating. Be sure to not overheat.

    Do not take more than the amount stated on the label unless directed by a doctor.

  • 37 How long will relief from Theraflu products last?

    Theraflu products relieve symptoms for up to 4 hours per dose.

    For Theraflu liquids, take every 4 hours in dosing cup provided, while symptoms persist. Do not take more than 5 doses or 150 mL in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor.

    For Theraflu Hot Liquid Powder you should dissolve the contents of one packet into 8 oz. of hot water, sip while hot and consume the entire drink within 10-15 minutes. Do not take more than the amount stated on the label unless directed by a doctor.

  • 38 If I miss a dose, can I take an extra Theraflu dose?

    If symptoms persist, you should take the next dose as directed. Never take two doses at once.

    Severe liver damage may occur if you take:

    • More than 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in 24 hours
    • With other medicines containing acetaminophen
    • Or have three or more alcoholic drinks a day while using Theraflu products

  • 39 Can I drink alcohol while taking Theraflu?

    We do not recommend drinking alcohol while taking any medication.

    Please read the drug facts on the package and speak to your healthcare professional with questions about alcohol consumption with your medical treatments.

    Severe liver damage may occur if you consume three or more alcoholic drinks a day while using Theraflu products.

  • 40 Can I take Theraflu if I’m pregnant or nursing?

    As with any medication, consult your healthcare professional before taking it while pregnant or nursing.

  • 41 Can you take Theraflu and NyQuil Cold and Flu together?

    The product label defines the current company position with respect to the safe and effective use of the product. Contraindications, any special warnings and precautions for use, are described on the product label. Theraflu products should not be used with other products that contain similar active product ingredients. If you are planning to use any other medicine with Theraflu we recommend you first consult your doctor. We want to hear from you. Kindly send us an email at mystory.us@haleon.com. If you need to report an adverse event or side effect or a quality complaint with one of our products, please call us at 1-855-297-3031, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am- 6:00 pm Eastern Time (English/Spanish) so we can give you more personalized attention.

  • 42 I took more than the recommended Theraflu dose. What should I do?

    If you suspect that you’ve taken more than a normal dosage of Theraflu, get medical help or contact the Poison Control Center immediately.

    Quick medical attention is critical for both adults and children, even if you don’t notice any signs or symptoms.

    Taking more than the recommended dose can cause serious health problems, including liver damage.

  • 43 What’s the purpose of the variety of ingredients in different Theraflu products?

    Each ingredient found in Theraflu products play a key role in easing your flu and cold symptoms.

    For instance:

    • Acetaminophen acts as a pain reliever and fever reducer
    • Chlorpheniramine maleate and Pheniramine maleate are antihistamine that relieves hay fever and common cold symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes.
    • Diphenhydramine hydrochloride is an antihistamine and cough suppressant that relieves hay fever and common cold symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery eyes and a dry cough.
    • Dextromethorphan hydrobromide is a cough suppressant that relieves a dry cough.
    • Phenylephrine hydrochloride is a nasal decongestant that helps clear your sinuses by reducing swelling and restricting mucous production.

  • 44 Where can I find Theraflu products?

    Theraflu products are available at most major retailers, pharmacies and online.

  • 45 Can I use Theraflu products past their expiration date?

    You should never use any medicine after the expiration date marked on the package. You should appropriately dispose of any expired products.

  • 46 Does Theraflu still partner with Lipton Products?

    No, Lipton tea flavors are no longer part of Theraflu products. However, the Tea Infusion Flavors give Theraflu the same great taste you expect while relieving your cold and flu symptoms. The comforting flavors of green tea and honey lemon, and green tea and citrus flavors are all part of the Theraflu family.

  • 47 Can you take Theraflu and Tylenol Cold and Flu together?

    The product label defines the current company position with respect to the safe and effective use of the product. Contraindications, any special warnings and precautions for use, are described on the product label. Theraflu products should not be used with other products that contain similar active product ingredients. If you are planning to use any other medicine with Theraflu we recommend you first consult your doctor. We want to hear from you. Kindly send us an email at mystory.us@haleon.com. If you need to report an adverse event or side effect or a quality complaint with one of our products, please call us at 1-855-297-3031, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am- 6:00 pm Eastern Time (English/Spanish) so we can give you more personalized attention.

  • 48 Can I use an HSA or FSA to buy Theraflu products?

    You can use your HSA and FSA tax-preferred savings account to purchase certain OTC products including Theraflu. The passage of the CARES Act by Congress includes provisions to restore OTC eligibility under tax-preferred HSA and FSA accounts. Your plan details may vary, so save your receipt and check with your benefits or health provider for eligibility.

    Source: https://www.chpa.org/Monograph_FSA_CARES.aspx

Theraflu Cough Relief

  • 49 What is Theraflu Cough Relief?

    New to the lineup, Theraflu Cough Relief is Theraflu’s first hot liquid remedy targeted to treat cough and chest congestion fast. With 2 maximum-strength active ingredients, Theraflu Cough relief suppresses an irritating dry and wet cough, and thins mucus to relieve chest congestion, all in a warm, soothing liquid.

  • 50 What Can I Expect from Theraflu Cough Relief?

    Inside every cup of Theraflu Cough Relief is a warm wave of powerful cough-and-chest-congestion fighting relief. Not only does Theraflu Cough Relief target your symptoms fast, but Theraflu Cough Relief also dissolves quickly in water and is ready to take in an instant. And thanks to the steamy vapors, you can start to feel the warmth of Theraflu Cough Relief before your first sip.

  • 51 Who Should Use Theraflu Cough Relief?

    If you’re stricken with an irritating cough or chest congestion and appreciate a cup of warm, soothing relief, Theraflu Cough Relief could be the remedy for you. For starters, Theraflu Cough Relief is the only Theraflu product targeted to relieve cough and chest congestion. And like all Theraflu hot liquids, Theraflu Cough Relief delivers a warm wave of powerful relief to treat your worst symptoms fast.

Sources

i. Common Colds: Protect Yourself and Others. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/features/rhinoviruses/index.html. Accessed 24/03/20. 
ii. Key Facts About Influenza (Flu). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm. Accessed 24/03/20.