Tamiflu, also known as Oseltamivir is an antiviral drug which is used to treat flu caused by influenza virus A and B in the body. The medicine is available in form of capsule and oral suspension powder. Tamiflu should not be used as a replacement for early administration of influenza vaccination. Over the time, influenza viruses’ change and can develop resistance substitutions which can make the antiviral medicine less effective.
What is the Uses of Tamiflu ?
Patients who have flu symptoms for two or less than two days can take tamiflu to treat flu symptoms caused by influenza virus. The medicine also prevents symptoms of flu if a person has been exposed to the virus. The medicine does not treats common cold.
The recovery time with the intake of this medicine is shortened by 1-2 days and the severity of the flu symptoms like, stuffy nose, chills, sore throat and cough is reduced to great extent.
Side Effects of Tamiflu
The common side effects of Tamiflu drug are nausea, vomiting and hallucinations. The doctor claims the drug to be effective in treating flu symptoms which makes the medicine worth the side effects.
A serious reaction from this medicine is rare. Reach out to your doctor in case you experience any side effects like- rashes, itchiness, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing. Children might experience certain mood change due to the medicine which includes agitation or confusion.
Dosage of Tamiflu
The medicine should be taken immediately when you experience the first symptoms of flu. It can be taken with or without food. However, taking the medicine with food will lower the risk of having any side effects. The medicine can be taken for a period of five days, twice a day or as directed by the physician. The dosage is determined basis your body’s response to the treatment and your medical condition. Discontinuing the medicine before completing the entire course could lead the virus to grow again. In case of overdose of the medicine seek medical help.
Precautionary Measures
- Inform your doctor about your medical history and allergies to any medicine.
- Discuss the pros and cons of the medicine in case you have kidney problem and you get dialysis treatment.
- In case of pregnancy, discuss the benefits and risks of this medicine with the doctor.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother, consult your doctor before the intake of tamiflu as it can pass into breast milk.
- In case you need to undergo any surgery, inform the doctor about all your prescription medicines including tamiflu.
- If you have got a nasal flu vaccine past two weeks before getting flu, inform the doctor about the same.
- Two weeks old infant should not be administered tamiflu or any medication without doctor’s advice.
- If you have brain disorder, weak immune system or chronic lung disease, speak to the doctor before taking tamiflu.
- Avoid consuming alcohol while taking tamiflu as it may weaken your immune system.
Drug Interaction
Vitamin supplements, herbal medicines or any other over the counter medicine taken by the patient should be informed to the doctor as it may interact with tamiflu.
In case the patient has received flu vaccine or flu mist in the nose in the past two weeks before getting the flu, it should be reported to the doctor before taking any medicine.
