CLASS and MECHANISM of Action
Tamiflu is an antiviral drug that is used in the treatment and prophylaxis of both Influenza virus A and Influenzavirus B. Tamiflu is a neuraminidase inhibitor. It acts as a transition-state analogue inhibitor of influenza neuraminidase, preventing progeny virions from emerging from infected cells.
Active Ingredients: oseltamivir phosphate
What is Tamiflu PRESCRIBED For?
Tamiflu attacks the influenza virus and stops 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. Tamiflu is for treating adults and children age 1 and older with the flu whose flu symptoms started within the last day or two. Tamiflu can also reduce the chance of getting the flu in people age 1 and older who have a higher chance of getting the flu because they spend time with someone who has the flu. Tamiflu can also reduce the chance of getting the flu if there is a flu outbreak in the community.
How Should I Take Tamiflu?
The usual adult dosage for treatment of influenza is 75 mg twice daily for 5 days, beginning within 2 days of the appearance of symptoms and with decreased doses for children and patients with renal impairment. Oseltamivir may be given as a preventive measure either during a community outbreak or following close contact with an infected individual. Standard prophylactic dosage is 75 mg once daily for patients aged 13 and older, which has been shown to be safe and effective for up to six weeks. Store at room temperature, 15-30°C (59-86°F)
What are the CONTRAINDICATIONS for taking Tamiflu?
Do not take Tamiflu if you are allergic to the main ingredient, oseltamivir phosphate, or to any other ingredients of Tamiflu. Before starting treatment, make sure your healthcare professional knows if you take any other medicines, or are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Tamiflu is normally not recommended for use during pregnancy or nursing, as the effects on the unborn child or nursing infant are unknown. Tamiflu is not recommended for use in children younger than 1 year of age. Tell your healthcare professional if you have any type of kidney disease, heart disease, respiratory disease, or any serious health condition.
What Happens if I MISS A DOSE?
You should take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What happens if I OVERDOSE?
Seek immediate medical help in case of overdose. Symptoms of overdose may include confusion, vomiting, decreased size of the pupil; difficulty in breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face extreme drowsiness, unconsciousness, seizure and mild heart attack. Even if you notice effects that are not listed here, don't hesitate to contact your doctor or pharmacist.
What are the possible SIDE EFFECTS of Tamiflu?
The most common side effects of Tamiflu are nausea and vomiting. These are usually mild to moderate. They usually happen in the first 2 days of treatment. Taking Tamiflu with food may reduce the chance of getting these side effects. If you develop an allergic reaction or severe rash, stop taking Tamiflu and contact your healthcare
professional. People with the flu, particularly children, may be at an increased risk of self-injury and confusion shortly after taking Tamiflu and should be closely monitored for signs of unusual behavior. A healthcare professional should be contacted immediately if the patient taking Tamiflu shows any signs of unusual behavior. Before taking Tamiflu, please let your healthcare provider know if you have received nasally administered influenza virus vaccine during the past two weeks. If you notice any side effects not mentioned in this leaflet, or if you have any concerns about the side effects you get, tell your healthcare professional.
What other drugs can INTERACT with Tamiflu?
There are no known interactions between Tamiflu and other drugs. Tamiflu does not interact with the flu vaccine. Therefore, vaccinated individuals can use Tamiflu and vice versa.
Additional Information
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for conditions that are not mentioned in patient information
leaflets. Do not use Tamiflu for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give Tamiflu to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have. It may not be right for them.
