Tamiflu
oseltamivir
Tamiflu is mainly used for quick flu recovery. Tamiflu, if administered in the first 2 days of the onset of flu symptoms, quickens the recovery by a day minimum. Tamiflu is also useful in preventing flu symptoms if the drug is administered in the first 2 days of the exposure of the virus. Tamiflu belongs to antiviral class of drugs termed as neuraminidase inhibitors.
Drug Action
The virus takes hostage in the body and forms new copies of them and speedily spreads to different cells. Tamiflu works by preventing the release of new viral cell copies to the other cells.
Drug Form
Tamiflu is available in the form of liquid or capsule.
Important Information
Tamiflu prevents flu only as long as you administer the drug. Tamiflu has to be administered with care in adults especially among health care workers, patients suffering from immune deficiency, respiratory disease. In any case flu vaccination is a must.
Drug Administration
Tamiflu should be administered within 2 days of the onset of flu symptoms. In case of flu symptoms, take the drug twice daily for 5 days. The drug should be administered even if you get better during the course of the drug.
For flu prevention, the drug should be administered at least once in a week and the flu protection takes place as long as you administer the drug.
In case of stomach irritations, tamiflu can be taken along with food. The liquid suspension should be shaked vigorously every time when you take the drug.
Missed Dose
In case if you happen to miss a dose, do not have both the doses together. If the dosage clashes, it is better to avoid the previous dose and continue with the current dose. It is also better to consult your physician in case of any doubts regarding the dosage amount.
Drug Storage
Tamiflu is stored at room temperature and the blister packs have to be stored in a dry place. The liquid drug form should be used within 10 days from the opening and can be refrigerated but not freezed.
Tamiflu Side Effects
Some of the side effects of Tamiflu include:
- Abdominal cramps
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Coughs
- Diarrhea
- Infection in ears
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Sleeplessness
- Nausea
- Nose bleeding
- Vertigo
- Vomit
Precautions
Tamiflu should not be used if you are allergic to one or more ingredients of the drug.
Tamiflu should not be used if you are suffering from kidney dysfunction.
The effect of Tamiflu in relation with liver function is yet to be studied.
In people who suffer from kidney dysfunction, Tamiflu dosage amount is reduced to half.
Tamiflu efficacy is not determined in people who suffer from weak immunity/
Tamiflu is effective only on the flu virus but remains ineffective on bacterial infection that causes flu like symptoms.
Drug Interaction
Food and drug interaction is mostly seen upon the drug administration. Tamiflu interacts with influenza vaccine and the vaccine remains ineffective if it is done within 2 weeks of the administration of tamiflu.
Pregnancy
Tamiflu effect in pregnant mothers is not studied thoroughly; however, it is wise to discuss the effects of the drugs in pregnant mothers with the doctors before the administration of the drug. The drug is present in breast milk and could affect the infant. Hence, it is not recommended taking tamiflu during breastfeeding period.
Drug Dosage
The recommended dosage amount for adults is discussed below.
Influenza treatment - In case of treating influenza, the recommended dosage amount is 75mg one time in 24 hours for 7 consecutive days. In case of flu outbreak in the community, the dosage should continue for 6 weeks. In case of kidney disease, the recommended dosage amount is 75mg capsule every alternate days or 30mg liquid once every day.
Treatment for children of age group 1 to 12 years include 30mgof the drug twice everyday for 5 consecutive days. The correct dosage is determined by the body weight of the child. The dosage amount is:
- 30mg for children under 33 pounds
- 45mg for children weighing between 33 to 55 pounds
- 60mg for children weighing between 51 to 88 pounds
- And 75 mg for children weighing over 88 pounds
- Tamiflu, however, should not be used in children below 1 year of age.
Drug Efficacy
Tamiflu efficacy of tamiflu under 13 years is yet to be determined.
Drug Overdose
Over dose of Tamiflu can cause nausea, vomiting, and is wise to seek attention in emergency poison control as early as possible.
