HSA-Eligible

Is Flu & Cold Medicine HSA-Eligible? (2026)

OTC flu and cold medicines are HSA-eligible since the CARES Act of 2020.

Typical Cost

$5–$20 per product

Details

DayQuil, NyQuil, Mucinex, Robitussin, Theraflu, Sudafed, and other OTC flu and cold medications are all HSA-eligible without a prescription. The CARES Act of 2020 made this permanent. Cough drops (like Ricola and Halls) that contain active ingredients also qualify. Prescription antivirals like Tamiflu are eligible too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is NyQuil HSA-eligible?

Yes. NyQuil and other OTC cold/flu medications are eligible since the CARES Act (2020).

Are cough drops HSA-eligible?

Yes, if they contain active medicinal ingredients (menthol, benzocaine, etc.). Plain honey drops that aren't medicated won't qualify.

Is Tamiflu HSA-eligible?

Yes. Tamiflu is a prescription antiviral and is fully HSA-eligible.

Related HSA Expenses

Over-the-Counter Medications

$5–$30 per item

COVID Test

$10–$25 (at-home rapid); $0–$150 (lab PCR)

Thermometer

$8–$60

More HSA Resources

2026 HSA Contribution Limits

See how much you can contribute this year

HSA Tax Benefits by State

Check if your state taxes HSA contributions

All Eligible Expenses

Browse the full list of HSA-eligible expenses

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