Flu season over-the-counter: How to save money on prevention, treatment

WASHINGTON ( DC News Now ) — As children spend their days in classrooms around peers and flu season takes full swing, medical professionals are sharing ways to stay safe, prevent illness and save money in the process.

Before falling under the weather, over-the-counter savings opportunities will likely keep cash in your wallet and illnesses at bay.

Amanda Joy, associate medical director of MedStar Health Urgent Care, said families don’t need to sacrifice money during flu season.

“You do not need to go to the expense of buying brand-name medications,” Joy said, adding, “Often they’re the same drug, sometimes they’re even manufactured in the same place.'”

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) , “Any generic medicine must perform the same in the body as the brand-name medicine.” The FDA adds that generic medicine “must be the same as a brand-name medicine in dosage, form and route of administration, safety, effectiveness, strength and labeling (with certain limited exceptions).

DC News Now found brand-name liquid gels to treat cold and flu symptoms Monday, inches from a store-branded version that was $6.80 cheaper. This is an example of cost savings for over-the-counter medications.

Inside pharmacies, consumers can watch for buy-one-get-one deals and physical and digital coupons online, though likely offered by brand-name companies.

Joy said nasal steroid sprays, decongestants and hydrating are all effective ways to ease cold and flu symptoms.

“Staying well hydrated is key,” She said. “Alternating-in an electrolyte-type drink. We do not need brand names.”

According to a recent survey from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases , a majority of adults agree that annual flu vaccines are the most effective way of preventing severe illnesses. Meanwhile, less than 20% are concerned about themselves or family members getting sick this fall and winter.

If cost is a burden for people pursuing vaccines, Joy noted that “most insurance companies are now covering flu shots.”

According to the American Lung Association , most types of health insurance currently cover the influenza vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine for members without cost-sharing. Exceptions are listed here.

Joy added that keeping spaces clean can also go a long way, and homemade disinfectant spray can save consumers cash.

Other ways to avoid getting or spreading sickness include wearing surgical masks and using an indoor humidifier, which can help clear up congestion and, according to Joy, reduce the spread of viruses.

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