Medications and Drugs
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.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 1/10/2006
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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