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The advice below applies to the treatment of Influenza type A only.
Parainfluenza infection and many other viruses can cause a "flu-like" illness. Amantadine has only been clearly shown to be of value with Influenza type A. Influenza type B which is responsible for up to a 1/3 of all influenza cases is not inhibited by Amantadine. The Herpes group of viruses (cold sores, genital herpes, chickenpox and shingles) are treatable with a range of topical and oral medications. see herpes info

Treatment of Influenza*
Amantadine 100mg orally 12-hourly until 48 hours after recovery, may be considered for treatment of Influenza A in the high risk individual, but only in the context of a proven influenza epidemic and within the first 48 hours of the onset of the illness. In Australia the use of Amantadine in children under the age of 5 is not recommended.
When renal function is impaired or the patient is over 65 the dose should be reduced to Amantadine 100mg orally, once daily.
Relenza - New antiviral Zanamavir
It acts by preventing the virus multipying. This inhaled preparation is well tolerated but needs to be commenced within 48 hours of onset of symptoms

Treatment of Acute Bronchitis*
In a previously healthy adult or child, acute bronchitis is most often viral and does not need antibiotic therapy. If severe, a secondary bacterial infection may be assumed. ... Treatment should be directed towards Streptococcus pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pnemoniae, or haemophilus influenzae.

Relenza - New antiviral Zanamavir**
Zanamavir  the first neuraminidase inhibitor has been approved for marketing as a treatment for influenza in patients over 12 in Australia and Sweden. This agent is effective against both Influenza A & B strains and so far there is no sign of viral resistance. It acts to prevent the virus multipying.

 This inhaled preparation is well tolerated but need to be commenced within 48 hours of onset of symptoms

*Victorian Drug Usage Advisory Committee. 98/99
PO Box 423, Carlton South, Victoria, 3053, Australia

** FLU News February 99 ...CSL Ltd, Victoria Australia