A neuraminidase inhibitor - It is used to prevent and to treat some kinds of influenza or the flu
FDA Alerts
Special Alerts:
Roche and FDA informed healthcare professionals of neuropsychiatric events associated with the use of oseltamivir (Tamiflu), in patients with influenza. These symptoms, as described in post marketing reports mostly from Japan, include delirium and abnormal behavior leading to injury, and in some cases resulting in fatal outcomes. These events were reported primarily among pediatric patients and often had an abrupt onset and rapid resolution. Patients with influenza should be closely monitored for signs of abnormal behavior. If neuropsychiatric symptoms occur, the risks and benefits of continuing treatment should be evaluated. For more information visit the FDA website at: http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2008/safety08.htm#Tamiflu, http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2008/Tamiflu_DHCP.pdf and http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2008/Tamiflu_PI.pdf.
OSELTAMIVIR (os el TAM i vir) is an antiviral medicine. It is used to prevent and to treat some kinds of influenza or the flu. It will not work for colds or other viral infections.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Start this medicine at the first sign of flu symptoms. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Take all of your medicine as directed even if you think you are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 1 year old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose (within 2 hours), take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
Interactions are not expected.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
If you have the flu, you may be at an increased risk of developing seizures, confusion, or abnormal behavior. This occurs early in the illness, and more frequently in children and teens. These events are not common, but may result in accidental injury to the patient. Families and caregivers of patients should watch for signs of unusual behavior and contact a doctor or health care professional right away if the patient shows signs of unusual behavior.
This medicine is not a substitute for the flu shot. Talk to your doctor each year about an annual flu shot.
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