Should I take Lianhua Qingwen or Oseltamivir for influenza A?
Disease description:
Recently diagnosed with influenza A, I heard that both Lianhua Qingwen and oseltamivir can be used for treatment. I'm not sure which one to take and would like to know which is more effective for treating influenza A.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi
Generally speaking, influenza A, also known as H1N1 flu, can be treated with either Lianhua Qingwen or oseltamivir.
Lianhua Qingwen capsules are a traditional Chinese medicine primarily composed of ingredients such as forsythia and honeysuckle. It has the functions of clearing heat and detoxifying the lungs, and is suitable for relieving symptoms of wind-heat colds and influenza. Oseltamivir, on the other hand, is a neuraminidase inhibitor that prevents viral replication in the body, alleviates symptoms, shortens the duration of illness, and reduces the risk of complications. It is a prescription medication specifically used for treating influenza A and B.
Lianhua Qingwen mainly focuses on clearing heat, detoxifying, and relieving symptoms, while oseltamivir exerts specific inhibitory effects against the influenza virus. Therefore, the combined use of these two medications may theoretically produce a synergistic effect, enhancing the treatment outcome for influenza A.
Medications must be used under the guidance of a physician, with appropriate dosages and durations determined based on the patient's specific condition, age, physical status, and other factors. Additionally, adequate rest, increased fluid intake, and maintaining indoor air circulation during treatment are important to promote recovery.
