Tamiflu

 Category: Anti Viral

Generic name: Oseltamivir

Tamiflu capsule

What is Tamiflu?

Tamiflu is an antiviral medication used to treat the influenza viruses, type A and B. The active ingredient in Tamiflu is oseltamivir phosphate which is formulated as capsules in strengths of 30mg, 45mg and 75mg. Tamiflu is also available as an oral dissolvable powder which contains 12mg/ml of oseltamivir phosphate.

Drug Uses

Tamiflu is available by prescription only. This drug attacks the influenza viruses, type A and B, and prevents the viruses from spreading in the body. Tamiflu is for use by adults and children over the age of one year. Tamiflu is also prescribed to help prevent infection during times of an outbreak of influenza. Outbreaks usually occur once a year during winter.

Dosage

Tamiflu is to be used as prescribed by a doctor. Treatment should begin within two days of symptoms. Tamiflu does not have to be taken with food. The tablets should be taken with a full glass of water.

ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS (OVER THE AGE OF 13): The recommended dose is 75mg twice a day for five days. For prevention of flu during an outbreak, the recommended dose is 75mg once a day.

CHILDREN OVER THE AGE OF 1 YEAR: Dosage is calculated by body weight. Your doctor will advise on the correct dosage for this age-group.

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, it can be taken as soon as you remember, as long as it does not clash with the next scheduled dose. In this case, rather skip the missed dose. Never take a double dose.

Precautions

Tamiflu should not be used as a substitute for the annual flu vaccine.

Before using Tamiflu ensure that your doctor has a full knowledge of your medical history as well as any other medications you are using because Tamiflu has been known to react badly with certain medications.

Inform your doctor if you have heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, and swelling or other disorders of the brain. Patients with these conditions may not be able to use Tamiflu.

Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should discuss the risks of using Tamiflu with a doctor because it is not yet known if Tamiflu can harm an unborn fetus or if it passes into breast milk.

Take the full course of Tamiflu as prescribed. Do not discontinue treatment with Tamiflu even if your symptoms improve. Never increase or decrease the dosage without consulting a doctor.

Side-effects

Call for emergency medical assistance if any of the following allergic symptoms occur: difficulty in breathing, skin rash or peeling, hives, or swelling of the lips, face, tongue or throat.

Contact a doctor if any of the following symptoms occur: delirium, hallucinations, confusion, unusual behavior or self-harm. These symptoms usually occur in children.

Less serious side-effects include diarrhea, vomiting or nausea, dizziness, eye irritations, headache, nosebleed, insomnia, coughing, or other respiratory symptoms.

This is not a complete list of side effects. If any symptoms persist or get worse, contact a doctor.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact emergency assistance immediately. Symptoms of overdose include vomiting and nausea.

Storage

Tamiflu should be kept in a cool, dry place away from sun and moisture.