Overview Of Oseltamivir

Oseltamivir is an antiviral medication used to treat and prevent influenza A and B (flu). It is sold under the brand name Tamiflu, among others.

Oseltamivir works by inhibiting the enzyme neuraminidase, which is found on the surface of the influenza virus. This inhibition prevents the virus from spreading to other cells in the body, thereby reducing the severity and duration of flu symptoms.


Oseltamivir Uses

Acute, Uncomplicated Influenza:

Oseltamivir is used to treat influenza A and B in patients who have been symptomatic for no more than 48 hours. It can reduce the duration and severity of flu symptoms.

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis:

It is used to prevent influenza in individuals who have been exposed to the virus, such as family members of someone infected with the flu.

Seasonal Prophylaxis:

In certain situations, oseltamivir may be used for seasonal prevention of influenza in individuals who are at high risk of complications from the flu, such as those with chronic health conditions or those living in communal settings like nursing homes.

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Oseltamivir Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of Oseltamivir are:


Precautions Of Oseltamivir

  • Before taking Oseltamivir talk with your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications. The product can contain serious adverse effects which can cause allergic reactions.
  • Before taking the medication talk with your doctor if you are having any medical history such as Kidney disease, liver disease, stomach ulcers and abdominal pain.
  • Talk to your doctor if you are taking any prescription or non-prescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements and other herbal products.
  • If you have a disease or condition that affects your immune system, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), or if you have heart, lung, or kidney disease, you should talk to your doctor.

How To Use Oseltamivir?

  • Oseltamivir is available as a capsule and a suspension (liquid) for oral administration. When treating flu symptoms, oseltamivir is normally taken twice a day (morning and evening) for five days.
  • When used to prevent flu, oseltamivir is typically taken once a day for at least 10 days, or up to 6 weeks during a community flu outbreak. It's critical to understand the drug dose prescribed by your doctor and to use a measuring device that can accurately measure the dose.
  • Even if you start to feel better, keep taking oseltamivir until the prescription is completed. Do not stop taking oseltamivir without first consulting your physician.
  • Your infection may not be completely treated or you may not be protected from the flu if you stop taking oseltamivir too soon or miss doses.
  • Mainly Oseltamivir is taken orally. The dosage for the treatment of flu in adults is 75 mg twice a day for 5 days at least. Children are given 30-75 mg twice a day.

Missed Dose

If you forget to take a dose, remember to take it as soon as possible. If your next scheduled dose is less than 2 hours away, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Call your doctor for instructions if you miss any doses. To make up for a missed dose, do not take a double dose.

Overdose

Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed Oseltamivir tablets there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body's functions. Overdose of a medicine can lead to some medical emergency.


Warnings for serious Health Conditions

Pregnancy Breastfeeding:

The medication is used during pregnancy as it will help in treating flu and keep the baby safe. Women who have recently given birth can be treated with oseltamivir. Oseltamivir is recommended for use in children aged one year and up.

Storage:

Direct contact with heat, air and light may damage your medicines. Exposure to medicine may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children’s reach. Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).


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Oseltamivir vs Remdesivir

Oseltamivir Remdesivir
Oseltamivir is an antiviral drug that is used to treat and prevent the flu. It works in a similar way to zanamivir (Relenza). Remdesivir is an anti-viral drug. It helps to fight with SARS-CoV 2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
Oseltamivir is used to treat certain types of influenza infection ('flu') in adults, children, and infants (over the age of 2 weeks) who had flu symptoms for less than two days. Preliminary data has shown that patient with advance COVID-19 and lung problems recover faster after receiving Remdesivir.
Some of the common side effects of Oseltamivir are:
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
Some serious side effects of Remdesivir are:
  • Yellow eyes
  • Dark Urine
  • Pain in the upper stomach

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is oseltamivir used for?

Oseltamivir is used to treat influenza (flu) in people 2 weeks of age and older who have had flu symptoms for no more than 2 days. It can also be used to prevent influenza in people 1 year of age and older.

2. Is oseltamivir used for H1N1?

Yes, oseltamivir is effective against influenza viruses including H1N1 (commonly known as swine flu).

3. How long does oseltamivir take to work?

Oseltamivir typically starts to work within 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment. It can reduce the severity of symptoms and shorten the duration of influenza.

4. What is oseltamivir approved to treat?

Oseltamivir is approved to treat influenza (flu) caused by influenza virus types A and B.

5. When is oseltamivir recommended?

Oseltamivir is recommended for treatment if started within 48 hours of the onset of flu symptoms. It is also used for prevention in certain situations, such as during influenza outbreaks.

6. Who should not take oseltamivir?

Oseltamivir may not be suitable for individuals who have had a severe allergic reaction to oseltamivir phosphate or any other ingredients in the medication. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

7. How effective is oseltamivir?

Oseltamivir can reduce the duration of flu symptoms by about a day if started within 48 hours of symptom onset. It can also reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia.

8. What is the best medicine for influenza?

The choice of antiviral medication for influenza often depends on factors such as the specific influenza strain and individual health considerations. Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is commonly prescribed and effective against influenza viruses.

9. What is the best tablet for flu?

Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is available in tablet form and is considered effective for treating influenza. Other antiviral medications like zanamivir (Relenza) are also available, though they are often inhaled rather than taken orally.

10. How long does influenza last?

Influenza (flu) typically lasts about 5 to 7 days, although symptoms like fatigue and cough can persist for 1 to 2 weeks or more in some cases.


Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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