Introduction: It is estimated that adults experience between two and four colds per year and catch roughly double this number. Colds and flus are self-limiting conditions; however, there are a number of treatments to help manage symptoms. The efficacy of Finiflu, containing garlic, onion and chilli, and claims to relieve the symptoms of cold and flu, but it is unclear what clinical data supports its efficacy. 

Materials and Methods: Finiflu was registered with the Therapeutic Good Administration in Australia in 2009. The current research focused on three aspects to assess the base evidence for Finiflu. This included:

1) An assessment of the characteristic properties of Fini flu based on information in the public domain, with the intention of determining any gaps in the evidence base for Finiflu.

2) A review of the literature supporting the efficacy of Finiflu for the relief of cold and flu symptoms.

3) A review of the literature supporting efficacy of Finiflu’s main ingredients for 
the relief of cold and flu symptoms. 

Results: Search results showed the main gaps in the product characteristics related to the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetic data. This is needed to determine the efficacy of Finiflu for the claims being made, the optimal posology for Finiflu as well as how the main ingredients in Finiflu are absorbed, distributed, metabolised and excreted by the body. The literature published in the public domain was searched to determine the number of reports supporting the efficacy of Finiflu and its main ingredients. Searches revealed no evidence for Finiflu or its main ingredients, except garlic, which had limited support when used prophylactically. 

Discussion: Future evidence is needed to support the efficacy of Finiflu and its main ingredients. Evidence needs to address the efficacy of Finiflu when used acutely to manage the short-term symptoms of cold and flu.