FAQ's
This FAQ section contains important patient information about Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) and should be read 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.
What is Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)?
Who should not take Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)?
Can Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) be used in children?
Can I give Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) to my child under 1 year of age?
Who should consider taking Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)?
What can I expect if I take Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)?
Can I take other medications with Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)?
How and when should I take Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)?
What if I miss a dose?
What are common possible side effects of Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) treatment?
Should I get a flu shot?
What if I am pregnant or nursing?
How and where should I store Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)?
What if this FAQ does not answer my question about Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)?
What is Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)?
Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) 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 (Oseltamivir) treats flu at its source by attacking the virus that causes the flu, rather than simply masking symptoms. Each Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) capsule (grey/light yellow) contains 75 mg of active drug and should be taken by mouth. Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) is also available in liquid suspension form for easy swallowing.
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Who should not take Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)?
You should not take Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) if you are allergic to oseltamivir phosphate or any other ingredients of Tamiflu (Oseltamivir). 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 (Oseltamivir) be used in children?
Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) can be used safely to treat and prevent the flu in adults and children aged 1 year and older. Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) is available in a convenient oral suspension (liquid) that's easy for children to swallow.
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Can I give Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) to my child under 1 year of age?
Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) is indicated for the treatment of influenza in patients aged 1 year and older who have had symptoms for no more than 2 days. Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) is also indicated for the prevention of influenza in patients aged 1 year and older.
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Who should consider taking Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)?
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 (Oseltamivir)?
In adult treatment studies, flu patients who took Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) felt better 1.3 days faster (30%) than flu patients who did not take Tamiflu (Oseltamivir).
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Can I take other medications with Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)?
Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) 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 (Oseltamivir) 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 (Oseltamivir)?
For the treatment of flu, Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) should be taken twice daily (once in the morning and once in the evening) for five days. Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) 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 doses, even if you are feeling better. Never share Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) with anyone, even if they have the same symptoms. It is important that you begin your treatment with Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) 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 it is near the next dose (within 2 hours). You can continue to take Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) 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. If you develop an allergic reaction or a severe rash while taking Tamiflu (Oseltamivir), contact your healthcare professional immediately.
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What are common possible side effects of Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) treatment?
Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are nausea and vomiting. Taking Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) 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 (Oseltamivir) 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, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding while taking Tamiflu (Oseltamivir), talk to your doctor before taking this medication. Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) 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 (Oseltamivir)?
Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) capsules should be stored at room temperature below 77°F (25°C) and kept in a dry place. Store constituted suspension under refrigeration at 2º to 8ºC (36º to 46ºF). Do not freeze. Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
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What if this FAQ does not answer my question about Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)?
Then please contact us by email or phone here
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