Cough, cold & flu

Flu hits hard and fast; a cold creeps in slowly. Learn the key symptom differences, how long each lasts, and the best OTC options in Australian pharmacies.

Cough, cold & flu7 min read

Dry vs Chesty Cough: Which Cough Medicine Should You Take? (Australia)

Understand dry and chesty cough labels, the limits of cough medicines, safer self-care and when to seek medical help.

Cough, cold & flu5 min read

Cold & Flu Tablets in Australia: Ingredients and Limits

Compare Codral, Demazin and pharmacy own-brands, learn how to pick day vs night formulas, and avoid doubling up on paracetamol from multiple products.

Cough, cold & flu8 min read

COVID vs Flu vs Cold: How to Tell the Difference and What You Can Take

Tell COVID, the flu and a cold apart fast: what the symptoms share, when to RAT test, and which OTC medicines ease which symptoms in Australia.

Cough, cold & flu15 min read

Best Sore Throat Lozenges in Australia (2026 Guide)

Difflam, Strepsils Intensive, Cepacol and more — we compare medicated and soothing throat lozenges by ingredient type to help you find the right one.

Cough, cold & flu8 min read

Sore Throat Remedies That Actually Work

Compare sore throat remedies Australians can use today — gargles, honey, lozenges, sprays and painkillers — plus the red flags that need a GP.

Cough, cold & flu6 min read

Nasal Decongestants in Australia: Sprays, Tablets and Limits

Compare saline, medicated sprays and tablets, with exact-product cautions, pharmacy access and when to seek advice.

Cough, cold & flu11 min read

Decongestant vs Saline Nasal Spray: Which Should You Use?

Fess or Otrivin? Learn when to use a saline spray, when a decongestant works better, how to avoid rebound congestion, and what's safe in pregnancy and for children.

Cough, cold & flu13 min read

Best Vitamin C for Colds Australia: What the Evidence Says (2026)

Vitamin C won't prevent colds, but daily supplements may slightly shorten how long they last. We explain the evidence and compare the best vitamin C options in Australia.

Advice & guides in Cough, cold & flu

Cough, cold & flu4 min read

Cold Medicine in Australia: Choose by Symptom

Compare cold symptom relief, check combination ingredients and learn when to ask a pharmacist or seek medical care.

Cough, cold & flu11 min read

Antibiotics for a Cold or Sore Throat: Do You Need Them?

Nine in ten colds, flus, and sore throats are viral — antibiotics won't help. Learn the signs of bacterial infection and what OTC options relieve your symptoms.

Cough, cold & flu8 min read

Sinus Infection Treatment in Australia: What Helps

Compare pharmacy relief for a sinus infection in Australia — saline rinses, decongestants and pain relief — plus red flags that mean you should see a GP.

Cough, cold & flu9 min read

Zinc for Colds & Immunity in Australia: Does It Work? (2026 Evidence Guide)

Does zinc help colds? We unpack the evidence on zinc lozenges, the 24-hour timing rule, acetate vs gluconate, safe doses and the copper warning for Aussies.

Cough, cold & flu7 min read

When to Get Your Flu Shot in Australia (2026)

Time your flu shot right — mid-season in July still works, and here's exactly who qualifies for a free flu vaccine in Australia in 2026.

Medical disclaimer

This information is general in nature and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about what’s right for you.