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Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)
Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) belongs to the
neuraminidase inhibitors class of drugs, which is generally used
to cure influenza, by paralyzing the growth
of flu virus in your body by attacking it and stopping it to further
multiply inside the body. It is used in patients having the symptoms
of flu for two days or less. Oseltamivir helps to reduce the time
you have flu symptoms such as sore throat, nasal congestion, headache,
muscle aches, or things like cough and chills.
What Is It
Used For?
Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) is used to treat illness
and prevent infection that has been caused due to influenza virus
and it also helps to reduce the time you have flu
symptoms such as sore throat, nasal congestion, headache, muscle
aches, or things like cough and chills.
This medication comes as a tablet to be taken by mouth.
It may be taken with or without food. Tamiflu can be habit-forming.
Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or take it for a
longer period of time than prescribed by your doctor. Call your
doctor if you find that you want to take extra medication or notice
any other unusual changes in your behavior or mood.
Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised
to do so by your doctor or health care provider. Do not take any
other over-the-counter or prescription medicines without talking
with your doctor. This includes any herbal preparations or dietary
supplements.
How Is It Used?
Follow the directions for using this medicine
provided by your doctor. Take this medicine about 30 minutes to
1 hour before meals. Take your last dose of the day at least 4 to
6 hours before bedtime.
What
special precautions should I follow?
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you
are allergic to Tamiflu or other such antiviral medications or any
other medications. Tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription
and non-prescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements,
and herbal products you are taking.
Also don't forget to tell your doctor about any of
the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant,
or breastfeeding. It is also NOT advisable for children below 18
years.
What
side effects can this medication cause?
This medication is generally well tolerated and
side effects are usually transient. Though, there are still some
commonly reported side effects which include: nausea, dizziness,
headache, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, fatigue, cold and cough
or any other respiratory symptoms.
Immediately stop taking oseltamivir and seek emergency medical attention
if you experience an allergic reaction like difficulty in breathing;
closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face).
Even if you notice effects that are not listed here, don't hesitate
to contact your doctor or pharmacist.
What
About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Avoid Tamiflu if you are allergic to any of the
ingredients present in this medicine. No other drug has been reported
to interact significantly with Tamiflu. Talk to your doctor and
pharmacist before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter
medicines with oseltamivir.
In case of emergency/overdose
Seek immediate medical help in case of overdose.
Symptoms of overdose may include confusion, vomiting, decreased
size of the pupil; difficulty in breathing; closing of your throat;
swelling of your lips, tongue, or face extreme drowsiness, unconsciousness,
seizure and mild heart attack. Even if you notice effects that are
not listed here, don't hesitate to contact your doctor or pharmacist.
What If I Miss A Dose?
You should take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However,
if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and
continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose
to make up for a missed one.
How Should It Be Stored?
Always Store Tamiflu (oseltamivir) capsules at
room temperature away from moisture and heat. Store the suspension
in the refrigerator.
Anything Else I Should
Know?
Don't allow anyone else take your medication.
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your
prescription.
NOTE: The above information
is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and
judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional.
It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product
is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare
professional before taking the product.
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