[header] How to beat the cold or flu [title] Take an over-the-counter (otc) medication. [step] Both acetaminophen (tylenol) and ibuprofen (advil or motrin) will help bring down your fever. Even bringing your fever down a degree or two will help make you feel a bit better. 
These medications are also pain relievers, which can help with pain related to sore throat and muscle ache from the cold or flu. [substeps] Always use acetaminophen or ibuprofen in children.