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Relenza |
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What is Relenza and why is it prescribed? Relenza is an antiviral drug that hastens recovery from the flu. People who begin taking Relenza within the first two days of their illness typically start to feel improvement a day earlier than they would otherwise. Relenza is believed to work by interfering with the spread of virus particles inside the respiratory tract. There is no evidence that Relenza protects you from catching the flu, and it will not prevent you from spreading the flu virus to others. How should you take Relenza? Follow your doctors directions for taking Relenza. Relenza is delivered directly to the lungs by oral inhalation from a Diskhaler device. To benefit from Relenza, you must begin taking it within 48 hours of feeling the first symptoms of flu, and must finish the entire 5-day course of treatment. Be sure to take two doses on the first day, allowing at least 2 hours between them. On the following days, take a dose every 12 hours (morning and evening). Do not puncture a blister containing the drug until you are ready to use it. Children should use Relenza only under the supervision of an adult. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time. Store Relenza at room temperature. Are there any Relenza side effects? Relenza side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Symptoms experienced during Relenza therapy are virtually the same as those associated with untreated flu. Relenza side effects may include abdominal pain, bronchitis, cough, diarrhea, dizziness, ear infection, headache, fatigue, fever, hives, joint pain, muscle ache, nasal infection, nasal symptoms, nausea, sinus inflammation, throat infection, and vomiting. Rare Relenza side effects may include allergic reaction, asthma, bleeding of the ear, bleeding in the nose or throat, breathing difficulties, facial swelling, heartbeat irregularities, rash, and seizure. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Relenza? If Relenza is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Interactions are considered unlikely. Are there any special warnings about Relenza? Relenza has been known to cause serious and potentially fatal breathing problems, especially in people who have asthma or other chronic pulmonary disorders. If you develop breathing difficulties such as wheezing or shortness of breath, stop taking Relenza and call your doctor immediately. Relenza is generally not recommended for anyone with a chronic pulmonary disease. If you do use it under these circumstances, be extremely cautious, and make sure that you have a fast-acting inhaled bronchodilator available and ready to use whenever you take it. If you use an inhaled bronchodilator regularly and have a dose scheduled at the same time as Relenza, use the bronchodilator first. Relenza can also cause serious allergic reactions. If you experience swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, or develop a skin rash, stop taking this medication and contact your doctor. Relenza has not been tested in people with medical conditions severe enough for possible hospitalization. Use it with caution if you have any kind of serious health problem in addition to the flu. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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