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Treatment area: Cold, cough & flu

Targeted treatment of colds and flu

Most colds clear up on their own, but a blocked nose, thick mucus, or a persistent tickly cough can be very bothersome, and the flu can be severe. Our doctors will use your questionnaire to determine whether a nasal spray, expectorant, cough suppressant, or flu medication is right for you.

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Ratgeber lesenRead the guideLire le guideGids lezen
  • online questionnaire
  • Medical examination
  • Discreet Shipping
  • Money back if not suitable

BehandlungsoptionenTreatment optionsOptions de traitementBehandelopties

Preparations for colds and flu

Codeine and Tamiflu are prescription-only medications, while bromhexine and xylometazoline are available only from pharmacies. After making your selection, you will complete a medical questionnaire, and a doctor will then decide whether a treatment is suitable for you.

Selbst einschätzenAssess it yourselfFaire le point vous-mêmeZelf inschatten

What might be a good fit?

  1. 1 If your nose is blocked due to a cold and breathing is difficult A decongestant nasal spray or drops containing xylometazoline can ease nasal breathing for a few hours, for a maximum of 7 days at a time. Your doctor will determine whether this is suitable for you.
  2. 2 For coughs with thick mucus that are difficult to cough up. An expectorant like bromhexine thins the mucus. A cough suppressant is usually not helpful here, because the mucus needs to be coughed up. The doctor will decide.
  3. 3 For a dry, irritating cough without mucus, which, for example, disturbs sleep. Codeine suppresses the urge to cough, but can cause drowsiness and addiction and is only intended for short-term use. Your doctor will decide whether it is suitable for you.
  4. 4 In case of sudden high fever with body aches and pains or after close contact with a person suffering from influenza Tamiflu is only effective against influenza viruses and only if taken within 48 hours. In the questionnaire, please specify exactly when symptoms or contact with the virus began. The doctor will decide.

Diese Hinweise helfen bei der Orientierung und ersetzen keine ärztliche Beratung. Ob und welche Behandlung für Sie geeignet ist, entscheidet der Arzt anhand Ihres Fragebogens.This guidance helps you get your bearings and does not replace medical advice. Whether a treatment is suitable for you, and which one, is decided by the doctor on the basis of your questionnaire.Ces indications vous aident à vous orienter et ne remplacent pas un avis médical. C’est le médecin qui décide, sur la base de votre questionnaire, si un traitement vous convient et lequel.Deze aanwijzingen helpen u op weg en vervangen geen medisch advies. Of en welke behandeling voor u geschikt is, bepaalt de arts aan de hand van uw vragenlijst.

Decongestant nasal sprays

They reduce swelling of the nasal mucosa for a few hours, thus making nasal breathing easier when you have a cold.

Xylometazoline hydrochloride RezeptpflichtigPrescription onlySur ordonnanceUitsluitend op recept

Xylometazolin

Decongestant nasal spray or drops for a blocked nose due to a cold, for a short time.

WirkeintrittOnsetDélai d’actionWerkingsaanvang
within a few minutes
WirkdauerDurationDurée d’actionWerkingsduur
Approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on the preparation up to 12 hours
FormFormFormeVorm
Nasal spray and nasal drops

So wirkt es:How it works:Mode d’action :Zo werkt het: Xylometazoline constricts the blood vessels in the nasal mucosa. This reduces swelling of the mucosa, clears the nose, and improves drainage. However, it does not treat the underlying cause of the cold.

Das kann für Sie passenThis may suit youCela peut vous convenirDit kan bij u passen
  • If your nose is blocked due to a cold or hay fever
  • If you have been using decongestant nasal sprays for no more than 7 days
  • If there is no dry, crusted nasal mucosa
Anwendung & wichtige HinweiseUse & important informationUtilisation et informations importantesGebruik en belangrijke aandachtspunten

Anwendung:Use:Utilisation :Gebruik: Nasal spray or nasal drops, up to 3 times daily in each nostril and for a maximum of 7 days at a time. The number of sprays or drops is stated in the package leaflet.

Verfügbare Stärken:Available strengths:Dosages disponibles :Beschikbare sterktes: 0,1%

Use for a maximum of 7 days, otherwise permanent nasal congestion may occur. Do not use in cases of rhinitis sicca or after nasal pituitary surgery; use with caution if taking MAOIs.

abfromà partir devanaf 36,28 € Endpreis, inkl. ärztlicher PrüfungFinal price, incl. medical reviewPrix final, évaluation médicale incluseEindprijs, incl. medische beoordeling
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Expectorant

They make thick mucus in the bronchi thinner, so that it can be coughed up more easily.

Bromhexine RezeptpflichtigPrescription onlySur ordonnanceUitsluitend op recept

Bromhexin

Expectorant tablet containing bromhexine for respiratory diseases with thick, difficult-to-cough mucus.

FormFormFormeVorm
Tablets

So wirkt es:How it works:Mode d’action :Zo werkt het: Bromhexine thins thick bronchial mucus and supports the cilia in its removal. This makes the mucus easier to cough up.

Das kann für Sie passenThis may suit youCela peut vous convenirDit kan bij u passen
  • If you have a cough with thick, difficult-to-cough-up mucus
  • If your cough has lasted less than 3 weeks or the cause is known to a doctor
  • If you have no blood in your sputum and no shortness of breath
Anwendung & wichtige HinweiseUse & important informationUtilisation et informations importantesGebruik en belangrijke aandachtspunten

Anwendung:Use:Utilisation :Gebruik: Tablet to be taken orally, usually three times a day after meals with plenty of fluids. Do not take for more than 4 to 5 days without medical advice.

Verfügbare Stärken:Available strengths:Dosages disponibles :Beschikbare sterktes: 8 mg

Discontinue use immediately if a spreading skin rash, blisters, or sore mucous membranes develop. Do not take while breastfeeding and do not combine with cough suppressants such as codeine without medical advice.

abfromà partir devanaf 31,22 € Endpreis, inkl. ärztlicher PrüfungFinal price, incl. medical reviewPrix final, évaluation médicale incluseEindprijs, incl. medische beoordeling
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Cough suppressants

They soothe the urge to cough in cases of dry, irritating coughs that are not accompanied by mucus.

Codeine RezeptpflichtigPrescription onlySur ordonnanceUitsluitend op recept

Codein

Opioid tablet containing codeine for the short-term treatment of dry, irritating coughs in adults.

FormFormFormeVorm
Tablets

So wirkt es:How it works:Mode d’action :Zo werkt het: Codeine suppresses the cough center in the brain via opioid receptors, thus weakening the cough reflex. Part of the drug is converted into morphine in the liver.

Das kann für Sie passenThis may suit youCela peut vous convenirDit kan bij u passen
  • If you have a dry, irritating cough without much mucus
  • If your cough has lasted for no more than 2 weeks or has been medically diagnosed
  • If you can abstain from alcohol during treatment
Anwendung & wichtige HinweiseUse & important informationUtilisation et informations importantesGebruik en belangrijke aandachtspunten

Anwendung:Use:Utilisation :Gebruik: Tablet to be taken orally, usually several times a day at intervals of at least 6 hours, and preferably in the evening. The duration of treatment should be as short and the dose as possible.

Verfügbare Stärken:Available strengths:Dosages disponibles :Beschikbare sterktes: 10 mg · 15 mg · 20 mg · 30 mg

Codeine can be addictive and depress breathing. Do not use if you have respiratory insufficiency, COPD or emphysema, pneumonia, an acute asthma attack, impaired liver function, are breastfeeding, or are taking MAOIs. Avoid alcohol and use with caution when taking sleeping pills or tranquilizers.

abfromà partir devanaf 46,41 € Endpreis, inkl. ärztlicher PrüfungFinal price, incl. medical reviewPrix final, évaluation médicale incluseEindprijs, incl. medische beoordeling
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Neuraminidase inhibitors

Active ingredients against flu viruses that are only effective if taken early.

Oseltamivir RezeptpflichtigPrescription onlySur ordonnanceUitsluitend op recept

Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)

Capsule containing oseltamivir against influenza viruses, for the treatment and prevention of influenza.

WirkdauerDurationDurée d’actionWerkingsduur
Protection only during ingestion
FormFormFormeVorm
Hard capsules

So wirkt es:How it works:Mode d’action :Zo werkt het: Oseltamivir inhibits the neuraminidase enzyme of influenza viruses. This prevents newly formed viruses from being released from infected cells, thus hindering their spread throughout the body. It is not effective against cold viruses, coronaviruses, or bacteria.

Das kann für Sie passenThis may suit youCela peut vous convenirDit kan bij u passen
  • If your flu symptoms started less than 48 hours ago
  • If you have had close contact with a person suffering from influenza in the last 48 hours
  • If there is no shortness of breath, no chest pain, and no confusion
Anwendung & wichtige HinweiseUse & important informationUtilisation et informations importantesGebruik en belangrijke aandachtspunten

Anwendung:Use:Utilisation :Gebruik: Hard capsules for oral use, for treatment twice daily for 5 days, for prevention after contact once daily for 10 days. Start within 48 hours; the dose is determined by the doctor.

Verfügbare Stärken:Available strengths:Dosages disponibles :Beschikbare sterktes: 75 mg

Effectiveness is only proven if treatment is started within 2 days, and Tamiflu only works against influenza viruses. In case of shortness of breath, chest pain, or confusion, call emergency services immediately at 112.

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RatgeberGuideGuideGids

What you should know about respiratory infections

Colds are caused by many different viruses and usually subside within 1 to 2 weeks. These preparations can alleviate symptoms or be effective against influenza viruses, but they do not replace medical consultation if warning signs are present.

A common cold or the flu?

A common cold (viral infection) is caused by many different viruses. It typically begins slowly with a scratchy throat, runny nose, and cough, usually without a high fever. In contrast, the flu (influenza) is caused by influenza viruses and often manifests itself as follows:

  • sudden onset with high fever and severe feeling of illness
  • Headaches, muscle and joint pain
  • dry cough and sore throat

A common cold usually clears up after 1 to 2 weeks, while a cough can last several weeks longer. The flu often lasts longer and can be severe in older people or those with chronic illnesses.

What resources are available?

The products in this area target different ailments:

  • Xylometazoline: It reduces swelling of the nasal mucosa.
  • Bromhexine: Thins thick mucus in the bronchi
  • Codeine: Suppresses the urge to cough in cases of dry, irritating coughs
  • Tamiflu (Oseltamivir): slows the spread of flu viruses in the body

Nasal sprays, expectorants, and cough suppressants relieve symptoms but do not treat the underlying cause of a cold. None of these medications are effective against bacteria. Expectorants and cough suppressants should not be taken together without a doctor's prescription, as this can cause mucus to build up in the airways.

Side effects and cautions

Codeine can cause drowsiness, constipation, respiratory depression, and addiction. Alcohol should be avoided during treatment, and when used with sleeping pills or sedatives, breathing can become dangerously slow. Tamiflu frequently causes nausea, usually during the first few days of treatment. Bromhexine can cause gastrointestinal upset and should be discontinued immediately if a spreading blisters develop. Xylometazoline can irritate the nose; caution is advised in patients with glaucoma, high blood pressure, and those taking certain antidepressants.

Codeine and bromhexine are not prescribed online during pregnancy or breastfeeding; for Tamiflu and xylometazoline, the doctor weighs the benefits and risks.

When should you see a doctor immediately?

Most respiratory infections run their course without complications. Call emergency services immediately on 112 (Switzerland: 144) if:

  • Shortness of breath, chest pain, or bluish lips may occur.
  • Confusion, severe drowsiness, or a seizure may also occur.
  • Fever occurs with a stiff neck, severe headache, or swelling around one eye.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience blood in your sputum, fever above 39°C for more than 3 days, renewed deterioration after initial improvement, or a cough that lasts longer than 3 weeks.

Getting through the infection well

What you can do yourself

When you have a cold, your body primarily needs rest. Many symptoms can be alleviated with simple measures, even as a complement to medical treatment. Drinking plenty of fluids keeps the mucous membranes moist and can make coughing easier. If you have a fever, rest and avoid exercise until the symptoms have subsided. Smoking further irritates the airways.

  • Drink enough fluids throughout the day, for example water or warm herbal tea.
  • Moisten your nose with saline spray and ventilate rooms regularly.
  • Cough and sneeze into your elbow, wash your hands frequently, and stay home if you have a fever.

Note when your symptoms started and which remedies you have been using and for how long. This information is important for the questionnaire, especially regarding flu medications and decongestant nasal sprays. Whether an annual flu vaccination is recommended for you is best discussed with your family doctor. If your nasal congestion is primarily seasonal, you can find further information in our section: Hay fever and allergies. Our online doctor answers general questions..

Zu den BehandlungsoptionenView treatment optionsVoir les options de traitementNaar de behandelopties

AblaufHow it worksDéroulementWerkwijze

In vier Schritten zur BehandlungFour steps to your treatmentEn quatre étapes vers votre traitementIn vier stappen naar uw behandeling

Ärztlich geprüft, diskret und ohne Wartezimmer.Reviewed by a doctor, discreet and without a waiting room.Examiné par un médecin, discret et sans salle d’attente.Door een arts beoordeeld, discreet en zonder wachtkamer.

  1. 1Behandlung wählenChoose a treatmentChoisir un traitementBehandeling kiezenWählen Sie Ihr Anliegen und das gewünschte Präparat oder stellen Sie eine allgemeine Anfrage.Choose your concern and the medicine you want, or send a general request.Choisissez votre problème et le médicament souhaité, ou envoyez une demande générale.Kies uw klacht en het gewenste middel, of stuur een algemene aanvraag.
  2. 2Fragebogen ausfüllenFill in the questionnaireRemplir le questionnaireVragenlijst invullenDie medizinischen Fragen beantworten Sie online, vertraulich und in Ruhe.You answer the medical questions online, confidentially and at your own pace.Vous répondez aux questions médicales en ligne, en toute confidentialité et à votre rythme.U beantwoordt de medische vragen online, vertrouwelijk en in alle rust.
  3. 3Ärztliche PrüfungMedical reviewÉvaluation médicaleMedische beoordelingEin zugelassener Arzt prüft Ihre Angaben. Ist die Behandlung nicht geeignet, erhalten Sie Ihr Geld zurück.A licensed doctor reviews your answers. If the treatment is not suitable, you get your money back.Un médecin agréé examine vos réponses. Si le traitement ne convient pas, vous êtes remboursé.Een bevoegde arts beoordeelt uw gegevens. Is de behandeling niet geschikt, dan krijgt u uw geld terug.
  4. 4Diskreter VersandDiscreet deliveryLivraison discrèteDiscrete verzendingNach Ausstellung des Rezepts versendet eine EU-Partnerapotheke Ihr Arzneimittel meist innerhalb eines Werktages.Once the prescription has been issued, an EU partner pharmacy usually sends your medicine within one working day.Une fois l’ordonnance établie, une pharmacie partenaire de l’UE expédie votre médicament généralement sous un jour ouvré.Na het uitschrijven van het recept verstuurt een EU-partnerapotheek uw geneesmiddel meestal binnen één werkdag.

Häufige FragenFrequently asked questionsQuestions fréquentesVeelgestelde vragen

Questions about colds and flu

Haben Sie eine andere Frage? Unsere Ärzte und unser Service-Team helfen Ihnen gerne weiter.Have another question? Our doctors and our service team will be glad to help.Vous avez une autre question ? Nos médecins et notre équipe de service vous aident volontiers.Heeft u een andere vraag? Onze artsen en ons serviceteam helpen u graag verder.

Frage an einen ArztAsk a doctorPoser une question à un médecinVraag stellen aan een arts
Do I need a prescription for these medications?

Codeine and Tamiflu are prescription-only medications, while bromhexine and xylometazoline are available only from pharmacies. At Doctorcura, a doctor will review your questionnaire to determine if the treatment is suitable for you. Therefore, please provide complete information about any pre-existing conditions, medications, pregnancy, and the duration of your symptoms.

No. Oseltamivir is only effective against influenza viruses (influenza A and B), not against common cold viruses, coronaviruses, or bacteria. Its effectiveness is only proven if it is taken no later than two days after the onset of symptoms or after contact with an infected person. Oseltamivir is also not a substitute for the flu vaccine.

Not without a doctor's prescription. An expectorant like bromhexine is meant to make coughing easier, while a cough suppressant like codeine suppresses the cough reflex. Together, these can cause loosened mucus to build up in the airways. Which medication is appropriate depends on whether the cough is dry or productive. The doctor will decide.

With prolonged or too frequent use, the nasal mucosa becomes accustomed to the active ingredient. Without the spray, the mucosa then swells again, creating a cycle of use and nasal congestion (medicated rhinitis). Therefore, xylometazoline should not be used for more than 7 consecutive days. If nasal congestion persists after this period, the cause should be investigated by a doctor.

In that case, the treatment will not be approved and you will receive a full refund of all payments made. If your cough lasts longer than 2 to 3 weeks, if you have blood in your sputum, or if you have a high fever for several days, we recommend that you consult a doctor as soon as possible. If you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or confusion, call emergency services immediately at 112.

Medizinische ExpertiseMedical expertiseExpertise médicaleMedische expertise

Jede Anfrage in ärztlichen HändenEvery request in a doctor’s handsChaque demande entre des mains médicalesElke aanvraag in medische handen

Dr. Viktor Simunovic
Medizinischer GutachterMedical assessorMédecin évaluateurMedisch beoordelaarDr. Viktor SimunovicAllgemeinmedizin & digitale GesundheitGeneral medicine & digital healthMédecine générale et santé numériqueHuisartsgeneeskunde en digitale zorg
Dr. Codruta Anca Pandalache
Medizinische GutachterinMedical assessorMédecin évaluatriceMedisch beoordelaarDr. Codruta Anca PandalacheReproduktionsmedizin & FrauengesundheitReproductive medicine & women’s healthMédecine de la reproduction et santé des femmesVoortplantingsgeneeskunde en vrouwengezondheid
Lernen Sie unsere Ärzte kennenMeet our doctorsFaites connaissance avec nos médecinsMaak kennis met onze artsenHintergrund, Erfahrung und FachgebieteBackground, experience and specialismsParcours, expérience et spécialitésAchtergrond, ervaring en vakgebieden

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Medically supervised treatment of colds, coughs and flu

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