Feeling run down with a stuffy nose, cough, and body aches?
Get personalized recommendations for cold and flu relief based on your specific symptoms.
Start finderPregnancy & breastfeeding
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy, consult your GP or pharmacist before taking any medication. Some pain relievers and decongestants are not safe during pregnancy or late pregnancy.
Estimate Paracetamol & Ibuprofen doses
Tell us what you're experiencing
Quick questions about duration and severity
Personalized OTC medicine options
Flu has sudden onset with high fever and severe body aches. Colds develop gradually with milder symptoms.
No, colds and flu are viral. Antibiotics only work for bacterial infections.
Colds: 7-10 days. Flu: 1-2 weeks, with fatigue lasting longer.
Check ingredients to avoid doubling up on paracetamol or decongestants.
If symptoms are severe, persist beyond 10 days, or you have underlying health conditions. High-risk groups should seek GP within 48 hours for possible antivirals.
It's a common myth that antibiotics can cure a cold or the flu. These are caused by viruses, whereas antibiotics only kill bacteria. Taking antibiotics when you don't need them contributes to antibiotic resistance, making them less effective for everyone in the future.
What actually helps?
Is it a cold or the flu? Learn the key symptom differences, how long each lasts, the best OTC treatments available in Australia, and when to see a doctor.
We compared the top OTC cold and flu medicines available in Australian pharmacies. Here are our picks for the best overall, daytime, nighttime, children's, and budget options.
Sneezing and sniffling but not sure why? We compare hayfever and common cold symptoms side by side, explain how to tell the difference, and cover the best OTC treatments available in Australia.
Most colds, flus, and sore throats do not need antibiotics. Learn when antibiotics are truly necessary, what to use instead, and why antibiotic resistance is one of Australia's biggest health threats.
We compare the top throat lozenges available in Australia — from medicated options like Difflam and Strepsils Intensive to soothing picks like Soothers and Butter-Menthol. Find out which lozenge is right for your sore throat.
Fess or Otrivin? We compare saline and decongestant nasal sprays head-to-head — how they work, rebound congestion risks, safe use in pregnancy and children, and when to use each (or both).
Blocked nose? We compare the top nasal decongestants in Australia — Otrivin, Drixine, Sudafed, and Fess — covering sprays vs tablets, rebound congestion risks, and which option suits your situation.
Does vitamin C actually help with colds? We look at the evidence and compare the best vitamin C supplements available in Australia — from Blackmores Bio C to Nature's Own, Cenovis, Swisse, and more. Find the right form, dose, and value for your needs.
Last reviewed: April 2026
Reviewer: Healthcare Content Team
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.