Condition guide
Cold & Flu
Feeling run down with a stuffy nose, cough, and body aches? Get personalised recommendations for cold and flu relief based on your specific symptoms.
Find the right medicinePregnancy & 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.
Treatment and relief options
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever and aches; avoid ibuprofen in late pregnancy
- Decongestants for blocked nose (short-term use; avoid if hypertension, heart disease, thyroid disease, glaucoma, pregnancy, or on MAOIs)
- Cough suppressants (dry cough) or expectorants (chesty cough)
- Rest and stay hydrated
- If high-risk for influenza complications, seek GP within 48 hours of symptom onset for possible antivirals
Top picks
Top pick
Demazin Cold & Flu Relief Day + Night
A day and night pack covering the fever, aches and blocked nose together — check the ingredients so you do not double up on paracetamol or decongestants.
Best for a blocked nose
Sudafed Nasal Decongestant
A decongestant for a blocked nose, for short-term use only — avoid it if you have hypertension, heart disease, thyroid disease or glaucoma, are pregnant, or take MAOIs.
General information only — check with your pharmacist or GP before starting a new medicine. Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
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Children’s Dosage Calculator
Estimate paracetamol & ibuprofen doses by weight
Enter a valid weight (up to 50kg) to see dosage estimates.
Read this before you measure
- This is a general estimate only — the product label always takes priority.
- Always check the concentration on your specific bottle, as brands vary.
- Use the measuring cup or syringe that comes with the medicine.
- Don’t use ibuprofen for children under 3 months, or with asthma or chickenpox, unless advised by a doctor.
Not a prescription
This calculator gives general information only and isn’t a substitute for professional advice. Always read the label and follow the directions for use, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor about what’s right for your child.
See a doctor or pharmacist if…
- High fever (>39°C) lasting more than 3 days
- Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or productive cough with green/yellow sputum (pneumonia risk)
- Severe headache with neck stiffness
- Symptoms worsening after 7 days
- Confusion or drowsiness
Good to know
Viral vs. Bacterial: Why Antibiotics Won't Help
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?
- Rest: Your body needs energy to fight the virus.
- Fluids: Water, herbal tea, and soups help thin mucus and prevent dehydration.
- Zinc & Vitamin C: Some studies suggest taking zinc lozenges within 24 hours of symptom onset can shorten a cold, though results vary.
Frequently asked questions
Flu has sudden onset with high fever and severe body aches. Colds develop gradually with milder symptoms.
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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.