TAMIFLU (OSELTAMIVIR)

What is tamiflu?

Tamiflu (oseltamivir) is an anti-viral drug that is indicated for the treatment and prevention of influenza (flu virus), including avian influenza (bird flu).

It is available in tablet form and as a suspension.

Tamiflu can be given as treatment of influenza in adults and children >1yr who present with symptoms typical of flu, when influenza virus is circulating in the community.

Efficacy has been demonstrated when treatment is initiated within two days of first onset of symptoms.

Tamiflu can also be used as a preventive treatment in adults and adolescents (>13 years of age) after contact with a clinically diagnosed influenza case when influenza virus is circulating in the community.

Treatment of influenza

Treatment should be initiated as soon as possible within the first two days of onset of symptoms of influenza.

For adults and adolescents 13 years or older, the recommended oral dose is 75mg oseltamivir twice daily, for 5 days.

For children one year or older, Tamiflu oral suspension is available. For children with body weight above 40 kg, capsules may be prescribed at the adult dosage of 75mg twice daily for 5 days.

The safety and efficacy of oseltamivir treatment of children of less than one year of age has not been established.

Post-exposure prevention of influenza

The recommended dose for prevention of influenza following close contact with an infected individual is 75mg oseltamivir once daily for at least 7 days. Therapy should begin as soon as possible within two days of exposure to an infected individual.

The safety and efficacy of Tamiflu for the prevention of influenza in children 12 years or younger have not been established.

Prevention during an influenza epidemic

The recommended dose for prevention of influenza during a community outbreak is 75mg oseltamivir once daily for up to six weeks.

Side-effects:

The most common side effects of Tamiflu are nausea and vomiting. These are usually mild to moderate and occur in the first 2 days of treatment.

If an allergic reaction or severe rash develops, Tamiflu should be discontinued.

Tamiflu contraindications & cautions:

Hypersensitivity to oseltamivir phosphate is a contraindication.

Dose adjustment is recommended for both treatment and prevention in adults with severe renal insufficiency.

Is Tamiflu a substitute for influenza vaccination?

Tamiflu is not a substitute for influenza vaccination.

Use of Tamiflu must not affect the evaluation of individuals for annual influenza vaccination. The protection against influenza lasts only as long as Tamiflu is administered.

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