By Blua | Digital health by Bupa
Coming in liquid or lozenges, a cough suppressant can help ease the symptoms of a dry cough.
“Avoid cough suppressants if your cough is productive (wet). You need to shift that mucus,” says Janice.
6 minute read
Published 4 March 2026
The following information does not replace or substitute medical advice. Always check with your doctor before taking any medication.
The common cold and influenza are common in Australia. During our flu season, which typically lasts from June to September, around 300,000 people visit their GP for advice and help.1,2
While there are anti-viral medications that GPs can prescribe to eligible patients, most healthy adults will recover with no medical intervention.
However, your local chemist has some over-the-counter medications and other tools that can help to ease symptoms and make you more comfortable while your immune system battles the bug.
“Always check with your doctor first,” says Bupa GP Janice Tan.
Check out our chemist checklist for all your cold and flu needs.
A fever of up to 39°C can actually help your body fight off the infection that is making you ill, but can make you feel very unwell.5
“Paracetamol is the first choice as it’s gentler on the stomach than ibuprofen which you should avoid if you have stomach/kidney issues or are pregnant,” says Janice.
A stuffy, blocked nose is common if you have a cold. This can make breathing uncomfortable and make it hard to sleep. Decongestants in liquid, spray or drink varieties can help to ease symptoms for short periods. Do not use decongestant sprays for more than a few days as they can make the symptoms worse.6
“For nasal congestion, steam inhalation with eucalyptus or menthol drops can provide temporary but real relief. A menthol chest rub can be soothing, especially at night,” says Janice.
Bupa health insurance members can have prescriptions filled by local chemists and get them delivered to their door by registered couriers. You can also order over-the-counter goods. Delivery address must be within 8km of a participating pharmacy.
Our health and wellbeing information is regularly reviewed and maintained by a team of healthcare experts, to ensure its relevancy and accuracy. Everyone's health journey is unique and health outcomes vary from person to person.
This content is not a replacement for personalised and specific medical, healthcare, or other professional advice. If you have concerns about your health, see your doctor or other health professional.
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1 Australian Centre for Disease Control. (2025). Get your flu vaccine dose ahead of winter. Australian Government.
2 Australian Centre for Disease Control. (2026). Seasonal flu (seasonal influenza). Australian Government.
3 Medline Plus. (2024). Vitamin C and colds. United States Government.
4 Mayo Clinic. (2024). Coughs.
5 Better Health Channel. (2022). Fever. Victoria State Government.
6 Health Direct. (2025). Medicines for cold, flu and COVID-19.
