OSELTAMIVIR - (oss-el-TAM-eh-veer)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Tamiflu
The Tamiflu FAQ that follows answers most questions about this medication.
This FAQ section contains important patient information about TAMIFLU (oseltamivir phosphate) and should be read completely before beginning treatment. It does not, however, take the place of discussions with your doctor or healthcare professional about your medical condition or your treatment. This summary does not list all benefits and risks of TAMIFLU. The medication described here can only be prescribed and dispensed by a licensed healthcare professional, who has information about your medical condition and more information about the drug, including how to take it, what to expect, and potential side effects. If you have any questions about TAMIFLU talk with your doctor. Only your healthcare professional can determine if TAMIFLU is right for you.
What is TAMIFLU?
TAMIFLU (TAM-ih-flew) is a medicine to treat flu (infection caused by influenza virus). It belongs to a group of medicines called neuraminidase inhibitors. These medications attack the influenza virus and prevent it from spreading inside your body. TAMIFLU treats flu at its source by attacking the virus that causes the flu, rather than simply masking symptoms. Each TAMIFLU capsule (grey/light yellow) contains 75 mg of active drug and should be taken by mouth.
Tamiflu also appears to be active against canine parvovirus, feline panleukopenia, the canine respiratory complex known as "kennel cough," and the emerging disease dubbed "canine flu," an equine virus that began affecting dogs in 2005. Veterinary studies into its use for canine parvo and canine flu is progressing, but many dog shelters and rescue groups have reported great success employing Tamiflu in the early stages of these illnesses.
Where can I buy TAMIFLU?
Tamiflu is available by prescription from your Doctor or you can Buy Tamiflu Online
Who should not take TAMIFLU?
You should not take TAMIFLU if you are allergic to oseltamivir phosphate or any other ingredients of TAMIFLU. Before starting treatment, make sure your doctor knows if you are taking any other medication or have any type of kidney disease.
Can I give TAMIFLU to my child under 1 year of age?
TAMIFLU is indicated for the treatment of influenza in patients 1 year and older who have had symptoms for no more than 2 days.
Who should consider taking TAMIFLU?
Patients 1 year and older who have flu symptoms that appeared within the previous day or two. Typical symptoms of flu include sudden onset of fever and chills, cough, muscle pain, headache, fatigue and weakness. Some people also get a stuffy nose and sore throat.
What can I expect if I take TAMIFLU?
In two large clinical trials, one conducted in the USA and one conducted outside the USA, flu patients who took TAMIFLU felt better 1.3 days (30%) faster than flu patients who did not take TAMIFLU.
Can I take other medications with TAMIFLU?
TAMIFLU has been shown to have a good safety profile, with minimal chance of drug interactions. Your doctor or healthcare professional may recommend taking over-the-counter medications to reduce fever or other symptoms while the antiviral action of TAMIFLU takes effect. Before starting treatment make sure that your healthcare professional knows if you are taking any other medication.
How and when should I take TAMIFLU?
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. You may take it with food or milk to minimize stomach upset. Take this medication as soon as flu symptoms appear or as soon as possible after you have been exposed to the flu. Oseltamivir works best if you start taking it within 2 days of either of these events. If you have the flu, take oseltamivir usually twice a day for 5 days, or as directed by your doctor. To prevent the flu, take oseltamivir usually once a day for at least 7 days, or as directed by your doctor. Follow your doctor's instructions for how long to take this medicine. This medication works best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals at the same time(s) every day. Continue to take it for the full time prescribed. Stopping the medication too early may allow the virus to continue to grow, which may result in a relapse of the infection or failure to protect you from the flu. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens or if new symptoms appear.
What if I miss a dose?
If you forget to take your medicine at any time, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless if it is near the next dose (within 2 hours). You can continue to take TAMIFLU at the usual times. You do not need to take a double-dose. If you have missed several doses, inform your doctor and follow the advice given to you.
What are common possible side effects of TAMIFLU treatment?
Nausea and vomiting may occur as your body adjusts to this medication and usually go away after 1-2 days. Dizziness may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: chest pain. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Should I get a flu shot?
TAMIFLU is not a substitute for a flu shot. You should continue receiving an annual flu shot according to guidelines on immunization practices that your physician can discuss with you.
What if I am pregnant or nursing?
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while taking TAMIFLU, talk to your doctor before taking this medication. TAMIFLU is normally not recommended for use during pregnancy or nursing, as the effects on the unborn child or nursing infant are unknown.
How and where should I store TAMIFLU?
Store at room temperature (77 degrees F or 25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
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