Tamiflu

Tamiflu is an antiviral drug approved in more than 80 countries. Tamiflu is manufactured by Roche and is used for the treatment and prevention of influenza. Tamiflu is used for treating adults and adolescents suffering from influenza. Tamiflu helps those patients whose flu symptoms are present for not more than 2 days. Tamiflu is also used to reduce the chance of getting influenza in people because of infection.

How does Tamiflu work?

Oseltamivir in Tamiflu works by binding to the neuraminidase on the surface of the virus particles and stops it from working. When the neuraminidase helper is blocked in this way, newly formed viral particles are not released from the infected cells. This prevents the flu virus from spreading and infecting other cells. Oseltamivir therefore confines the infection to a smaller area. This makes the symptoms of the infection less severe and makes it is easier for the immune system to kill the virus.

How does Tamiflu help?

Tamiflu reduces the duration of the illness by approximately one to one and a half days and reduces the risk of developing flu-related complications, such as chest infections that require antibiotics.

Tamiflu is indicated for the treatment of viral infections especially influenza virus. Tamiflu can treat influenza A and influenza B. Tamiflu can decrease influenza symptoms such as weakness, headache, cough, fever, and sore throat in just the first day of intake. Tamiflu can also help in the prevention of influenza and protects you even if you have been in touch with an infected person.

What is the dosage of Tamiflu?

For the Influenza treatment, the dosage of Tamiflu is:

• 75mg of Tamiflu for adults to be taken twice a day for up to five days
• 30-75mg of Tamiflu for children to be taken twice a day for up to five days
• A paediatrician must determine the dose for infants

For the prevention of influenza, the dosage of Tamiflu is:

• 75mg Tamiflu tablets for adults once daily for at least 10 days
• 30mg Tamiflu tablets for children once daily
• A paediatrician should determine dosage for infants

What are the side effects of Tamiflu?

Tamiflu is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects of Tamiflu are nausea and vomiting. Other side effects of Tamiflu are diarrhoea, abdominal pain, dizziness, headache, and insomnia. If you experience any side effects or they become specifically persistent and bothersome, inform your doctor immediately.

What are the precautions for Tamiflu?

Before you take Tamiflu, tell your doctor if you have any of the following medical conditions:

• Heart problems
• Kidney ailments
• Other viral infections aside from Influenza A or Influenza B
• Lung problems
• Liver diseases
• Other serious medical problems that need constant medical attention

It is best to tell your doctor about all your current medical conditions and the drugs you are taking to avoid any complications in the future.