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:: Health Conditions - Influenza FLU - Tamiflu
Tamiflu

Frequently Asked Questions to Help You Get Well and Stay Well
TAMIFLU
This FAQ section contains important patient information about TAMIFLU (oseltamivir phosphate) and should be read completely before beginning treatment. It does not, however, take the place of discussions with your doctor or healthcare professional about your medical condition or your treatment. This summary does not list all benefits and risks of TAMIFLU. The medication described here can only be prescribed and dispensed by a licensed healthcare professional, who has information about your medical condition and more information about the drug, including how to take it, what to expect, and potential side effects. If you have any questions about TAMIFLU talk with your doctor. Only your healthcare professional can determine if TAMIFLU is right for you.
What is TAMIFLU?
Who should not take TAMIFLU?
Can TAMIFLU be used in children?
Can I give TAMIFLU to my child under 1 year of age?
Who should consider taking TAMIFLU?
What can I expect if I take TAMIFLU?
Can I take other medications with TAMIFLU?
How and when should I take TAMIFLU?
What if I miss a dose?
What are common possible side effects of TAMIFLU treatment?
Should I get a flu shot?
What if I am pregnant or nursing?
How and where should I store TAMIFLU?
What is TAMIFLU?
TAMIFLU (TAM-ih-flew) is a medicine to treat flu (infection caused by influenza virus). It belongs to a group of medicines called neuraminidase inhibitors. These medications attack the influenza virus and prevent it from spreading inside your body. TAMIFLU treats flu at its source by attacking the virus that causes the flu, rather than simply masking symptoms. Each TAMIFLU capsule (grey/light yellow) contains 75 mg of active drug and should be taken by mouth.
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Who should not take TAMIFLU?
You should not take TAMIFLU if you are allergic to oseltamivir phosphate or any other ingredients of TAMIFLU. Before starting treatment, make sure your doctor knows if you are taking any other medication or have any type of kidney disease.
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Can TAMIFLU be used in children?
TAMIFLU can be used safely to treat the flu in adults and children aged 1 year and older. TAMIFLU is available in a convenient oral suspension (liquid) that's easy for children to swallow.
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Can I give TAMIFLU to my child younger than 1 year of age?
TAMIFLU is indicated for the treatment of influenza in patients aged 1 year and older who have had symptoms for no more than 2 days.
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Who should consider taking TAMIFLU?
Patients aged 1 year and older who have flu symptoms that appeared within the previous day or two. Typical symptoms of flu include sudden onset of fever and chills, cough, muscle pain, headache, fatigue and weakness. Some people also get a stuffy nose and sore throat.
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What can I expect if I take TAMIFLU?
In two large clinical trials, one conducted in the USA and one conducted outside the USA, flu patients who took TAMIFLU felt better 1.3 days (30%) faster than flu patients who did not take TAMIFLU.
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Can I take other medications with TAMIFLU?
TAMIFLU has been shown to have a good safety profile, with minimal chance of drug interactions. Your doctor or healthcare professional may recommend taking over-the-counter medications to reduce fever or other symptoms while the antiviral action of TAMIFLU takes effect. Before starting treatment make sure that your healthcare professional knows if you are taking any other medication.
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How and when should I take TAMIFLU?
TAMIFLU should be taken twice daily (once in the morning and once in the evening) for five days. TAMIFLU can be taken with or without food. As with many medicines, if taken with a light snack, milk, or a meal, the potential for stomach upset may be reduced. You should complete the entire treatment of ten capsules, even if you are feeling better. Never share TAMIFLU with anyone, even if they have the same symptoms. It is important that you begin your treatment with TAMIFLU as soon as possible from the first appearance of your flu symptoms.
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What if I miss a dose?
If you forget to take your medicine at any time, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless if it is near the next dose (within 2 hours). You can continue to take TAMIFLU at the usual times. You do not need to take a double-dose. If you have missed several doses, inform your doctor and follow the advice given to you.
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What are common possible side effects of TAMIFLU treatment?
TAMIFLU is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are nausea and vomiting. Taking TAMIFLU with food may reduce the potential of these side effects. If you notice any side effects not mentioned - or if you have any concerns about the side effects you are experiencing, please inform your healthcare professional.
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Should I get a flu shot?
TAMIFLU is not a substitute for a flu shot. You should continue receiving an annual flu shot according to guidelines on immunization practices that your physician can discuss with you.
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What if I am pregnant or nursing?
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while taking TAMIFLU, talk to your doctor before taking this medication. TAMIFLU is normally not recommended for use during pregnancy or nursing, as the effects on the unborn child or nursing infant are unknown.
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How and where should I store TAMIFLU?
TAMIFLU capsules should be stored at room temperature below 77°F (25°C) and kept in a dry place. Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
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Also see: Amantadine
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