GENERIC NAME: zanamivir

BRAND NAME: Relenza

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Zanamivir is a neuraminidase inhibitor that prevents the spread of influenza A and B viruses, the viruses responsible for the "flu." Neuraminidase is an enzyme that is required by the influenza viruses to spread from infected cells to healthy cells. Zanamivir blocks the action of neuraminidase thereby reducing the spread of influenza. Since the spread of the viruses is prevented, the symptoms and duration of infection are reduced. On average, zanamivir reduces the duration of symptoms by one day if treatment is started within forty-eight hours after symptoms begin.

GENERIC AVAILABLE: No

PRESCRIPTION: Yes

PREPARATIONS: Rotadisk containing 5 mg blisters of zanamivir. Inhaler device (Diskhaler) is included.

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

PRESCRIBED FOR: Zanamivir is used for the treatment of uncomplicated influenza infection in individuals twelve years or older who have had symptoms for no longer than two days.

DOSING: Zanamivir is administered by oral inhalation. The recommended dose is two inhalations (5 mg per inhalation) twice daily for five days. Two doses (separated by at least two hours) should be administered on the first day of treatment. For best results treatment should begin as soon as symptoms develop.

For individuals with breathing problems, if the time of administration of zanamivir coincides with the use of inhaled bronchodilators, the bronchodilator should be used first.

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

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

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

SIDE EFFECTS: The most frequent side effects are headaches, diarrhea, nausea, cough, vomiting and dizziness. Sinusitis, ear, nose and throat infections may occur.

Patients with respiratory diseases may experience breathing problems when treated with Zanamivir due to irritation of the breathing tubes by the particles from the inhaler. If breathing problems occur, zanamivir should be discontinued. Patients who have asthma or other breathing problems that make them sensitive to inhaled particles should have a fast acting, inhaled bronchodilator available to treat any breathing problem that may occur when zanamivir is used.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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