GENERIC NAME: oseltamivir

BRAND NAME: Tamiflu

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Oseltamivir is a medication that decreases the spread of influenza A and B viruses, the viruses responsible for the "flu." Neuraminidase is an enzyme that enables influenza virus to spread from infected cells to healthy cells. Oseltamivir blocks the action of neuraminidase (it is a neuraminidase inhibitor) thereby reducing the spread of influenza. By preventing the spread of virus from cell to cell, the symptoms and duration of influenza infection are reduced. On average, oseltamivir reduces the duration of symptoms by one and a half days if treatment is started within forty-eight hours after symptoms begin.

GENERIC AVAILABLE: No

PRESCRIPTION: Yes

PREPARATIONS: 75 mg tablets

STORAGE: Store at room temperature, 15-30°C (59-86°F)

PRESCRIBED FOR: Oseltamivir is used for the treatment of uncomplicated influenza infection in adults who have had symptoms for no longer than two days. It also is approved for prevention of influenza in children (one year and older) and adults.

DOSING: Oseltamivir is administered orally. The recommended dose is one tablet twice daily for five days. For the best results, treatment should begin as soon as symptoms develop.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: There are no known interactions between oseltamivir and other drugs. Oseltamivir does not interact with the flu vaccine. Therefore, vaccinated individuals can use oseltamivir and vice versa.

PREGNANCY: Oseltamivir has not been adequately evaluated in pregnant women.

NURSING MOTHERS: The use of oseltamivir in nursing mothers has not been evaluated.

SIDE EFFECTS: The most frequent side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bronchitis, abdominal pain, headache and dizziness. Administering oseltamivir after meals helps reduce nausea.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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