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Tamiflu |
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What is Tamiflu and why is it prescribed? Tamiflu speeds recovery from the flu. When started during the first 2 days of the illness, it hastens improvement by at least a day. It also can prevent the flu if treatment is started within 2 days after exposure to a flu victim. Tamiflu is one of a new class of antiviral drugs called neuraminidase inhibitors. As the flu virus takes hold in the body, it forms new copies of itself and spreads from cell to cell. Neuraminidase inhibitors fight the virus by preventing the release of new copies from infected cells. The other drug in this class, Relenza, is taken by inhalation. Tamiflu is taken in liquid or capsule form. Tamiflu can prevent the flu as long as you continue taking this medication, but getting a yearly flu shot is still the best way of avoiding the disease entirely. For older adults, those in high-risk situations such as health-care work, and people with an immune deficiency or respiratory disease, vaccination remains a must. How should you take Tamiflu? Follow your doctors directions for taking Tamiflu. To provide any benefit, Tamiflu must be started within two days of the onset of symptoms, or exposure to the flu. If you have the flu, continue taking it twice daily for 5 days, even if you start to feel better. To prevent the flu, take it once a day for at least 7 days. Protection lasts as long as you take Tamiflu. If Tamiflu upsets your stomach, try taking it with food. Shake the liquid suspension before each use. If you miss a dose take it as soon as possible. If it is within two hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Store Tamiflu at room temperature. Keep the blister package dry. Use the liquid suspension within 10 days. It should be refrigerated, but do not freeze. Are there any Tamiflu side effects? Tamiflu side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Tamiflu side effects may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Less common Tamiflu side effects may include bronchitis, insomnia, and vertigo. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Tamiflu? If Tamiflu 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. No interactions have been reported. Are there any special warnings about Tamiflu? If you have kidney disease, the doctor may have to cut your daily dose of Tamiflu in half. The effectiveness of Tamiflu has not been established for people with weakened immune systems. The drug has not been studied in people with liver disease. Tamiflu works only on the flu virus. It won't stop bacterial infections that may have flu-like symptoms or bacterial infections that may develop while you have the flu. If your symptoms persist, check with your doctor. |
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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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