Oseltamivir

Oseltamivir

Why is it prescribed?

Oseltamivir is used for the treatment of uncomplicated acute illness due to influenza infection in adults and children over 1 year of age who have been symptomatic for no more than 2 days.  Oseltamavir when taken as recommended for the treatment of influenza, alleviates the symptoms and reduces their duration.

It is also used to prevent the onset of influenza in adults and children over 1 year of age who have been in contact with people who have influenza.

 

 

Products that have this ingredient include •Tamiflu® suspension •Tamiflu® capsules •Nat-Oseltamivir Capsule •Nat-Oseltamivir suspension •Jamp Oseltamivir capsule •

See other drugs used in the treatment of •flu •influenza •

Along with its needed effects, oseltamivir may cause some unwanted or undesirable effects. Generally, oseltamivir is well tolerated and many people will not experience unwanted effects. Possible unwanted effects include:

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • stomach pain

Uncommon:

  • dizziness
  • headache
  • trouble sleeping at night

Rare:

  • cough
  • fatigue

Symptoms of skin reactions include flushing, rash, itching or swelling. Symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions include dizziness or breathing problems.
Cases of liver toxicity have also been reported, symptoms of which include yellowing of skin or eyes and dark urine.  Contact a physician if you experience these symptoms.

 


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Oseltamivir works by inhibiting an enzyme necessary for the flu virus to spread through the body.


  • Oseltamivir is not a substitute for the flu shot. You should continue to get your flu shot as recommended by your doctor.
  • Before starting treatment with oseltamivir, make sure your doctor and pharmacist know if you ever had a bad reaction to oseltamivir, you have hereditary fructose intolerence, you are allergic to other medicine, food and dyes, you have kidney disease.
  • Drug Interactions: It is important to tell your doctor and pharmacist of any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking. To date, there does not appear to be any significant drug interactions with oseltamivir.
  • Use is not recommended in the following situation:
    • allergy to oseltamivir of any component of the preparation or to the related drug zanamivir.
  • Caution is recommended in the following situations:
    • kidney failure
    • liver disease
    • chronic illnesses such as heart and/or lung disease.

Use in pregnancy: Oseltamivir may be used during pregnancy.  Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you suspect you are pregnant.
Use while breastfeeding: Oseltamivir may be used if breastfeeding.  Consult your doctor or pharmacist before use.