Tamiflu

Generic name: Oseltamivir phosphate

What is Tamiflu?

Tamiflu is used to treat adults and children with the flu whose flu symptoms (fevers, chills, muscle aches, sore throat, and runny or stuffy nose) started within the last day or two. Tamiflu can reduce the chance of getting the flu if there is a flu outbreak in the community, as well as in people who have a higher chance of getting the flu.

What is the most important information I should know about Tamiflu?

Tamiflu can prevent the flu as long as you take the medication correctly. Getting a yearly flu shot is still the best way of avoiding the disease entirely. For older adults, those in high-risk situations such as healthcare workers, and people with an immune deficiency or respiratory disease, vaccination is imperative.

Who should not take Tamiflu?

Do not take Tamiflu if you are allergic to any ingredient of the drug.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Tamiflu?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Tamiflu. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney disease, heart disease, respiratory disease, or are pregnant or nursing.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Prevention of Influenza

Adults and children ≥13 years: The usual dose is 75 milligrams (mg) taken once a day for at least 7 days. If there is a general outbreak of the flu in your community, your doctor may recommend that you continue taking Tamiflu for up to 6 weeks. If you have kidney disease, take one 75 mg capsule every other day, or 30 mg once a day.

Treatment of Influenza

Adults and children ≥13 years: The usual dosage is 75 mg taken twice daily (morning and evening) for 5 days. If you have kidney disease, take a 75 mg dose once a day.

Tamiflu's ability to prevent the flu in children under 13 years of age has not been established.

Children 1 to 12 years: Doses are given twice daily for 5 days using the dispenser that comes with the liquid suspension. Each dose is determined by the child's weight: <33 pounds: 30 mg; 33-55 pounds: 45 mg; 51-88 pounds: 60 mg; > 88 pounds: 75 mg

Tamiflu should not be used to treat flu in children <1 year of age.

How should I take Tamiflu?

It is important that you begin your treatment as soon as possible from the first appearance of flu symptoms or soon after you are exposed to the flu. If you feel worse, develop new symptoms during treatment with Tamiflu, or if your flu symptoms do not get better, talk to your doctor.

Take Tamiflu with or without food. If you experience stomach upset, take it with a light snack, milk, or a meal.

Shake the suspension (liquid) well for about 5 seconds before each use.

What should I avoid while taking Tamiflu?

Unless your doctor gives you specific directions, there are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while taking Tamiflu.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Tamiflu?

If Tamiflu is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Tamiflu with any other medications.

What are the possible side effects of Tamiflu?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: bronchitis, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, cough, fatigue

There have been reports of abnormal behavior in children taking Tamiflu. Children should be monitored for confusion, hallucinations, speech problems, or self-injury during treatment.

Can I receive Tamiflu if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Tamiflu during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding and follow your doctor's instructions.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Tamiflu?

Take it as soon as possible. If it is within 6 hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Tamiflu?

Store at room temperature. Keep the blister pack dry.

The liquid suspension should be refrigerated and used within 10 days. Do not freeze.