Oseltamivir
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Neuraminidase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Oseltamivir
Summary
Oseltamivir is used to treat and prevent influenza A and B, commonly known as the flu. It's most effective when taken within two days of getting sick. It's also used to prevent the flu in people who have been exposed to someone with the virus, or during a flu outbreak.
Oseltamivir works by blocking a protein called neuraminidase that the flu virus uses to spread inside your body. This helps to reduce the duration and severity of flu symptoms.
For adults, the usual dose to prevent the flu is one 75mg capsule once a day. If you've been exposed to the flu, you'll take it for 10 days. If there's a widespread flu outbreak, you might take it for up to 6 weeks. The doses for children depend on their weight.
The most common side effects of Oseltamivir are nausea, vomiting, and headache. In rare cases, it can cause severe skin allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, and behavioral changes like confusion or hallucinations.
People with known hypersensitivity to Oseltamivir or any components of its formulation should avoid using this medication. Those with severe renal impairment may require dosage adjustments or alternative treatments. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using Oseltamivir.
Indications and Purpose
How does Oseltamivir work?
Oseltamivir is a medicine that fights the flu virus. It works by blocking a protein (neuraminidase) the virus uses to spread. This helps shorten the time you have flu symptoms like a stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, cough, body aches, fatigue, headache, fever, and chills. However, it's important to note that oseltamivir only treats the flu virus; it won't help if you have a bacterial infection. If you think you have the flu, see a doctor to determine the cause of your illness and whether oseltamivir is right for you. They can also help you manage other potential complications.
Is Oseltamivir effective?
Clinical studies have demonstrated that oseltamivir effectively reduces flu symptoms' duration and severity when taken early in the course of infection.
What is Oseltamivir?
Oseltamivir is a medicine that fights against influenza A and B viruses (the flu). It works by stopping the flu virus from spreading inside your body, which helps your symptoms go away faster.Doctors prescribe it for two main reasons: to treat the flu if you start taking it within two days of getting sick (if you're older than two weeks), and to prevent the flu if you've been exposed to someone with the flu or if there's a flu outbreak (if you're older than one year).
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Oseltamivir?
The treatment duration for oseltamivir is generally 5 days for influenza treatment, while prophylactic use may last from 10 days up to 6 weeks during outbreaks.
How do I take Oseltamivir?
Oseltamivir can be taken with or without food, but food or milk helps prevent stomach upset. Follow the instructions on the packaging. If you miss a dose of the capsules and it's been less than 2 hours until the next dose, skip the missed dose. The same rule applies to the liquid form (oral suspension). If using the liquid, shake the bottle well for 5 seconds before each dose. For children under 1 year old, use a special measuring device from your pharmacist. (Oral suspension is a liquid medicine; a dose is the amount of medicine to take at one time).
How long does it take for Oseltamivir to start working?
Oseltamivir begins to work within a few hours after administration, with significant effects typically observed within 1-2 days.
How should I store Oseltamivir?
Oseltamivir capsules should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Don't freeze them. Liquid oseltamivir (suspension) is different. Store-bought liquid can stay good for up to 10 days at room temperature or 17 days in the refrigerator. If your pharmacist makes the liquid, it lasts up to 5 days at room temperature or 35 days refrigerated. Again, don't freeze it. (A *suspension* is a liquid medicine where the drug is mixed, but not fully dissolved.) Always keep oseltamivir out of reach of children. Throw away any leftover medicine properly. Check with your pharmacist or doctor on how to dispose of unused medication.
What is the usual dose of Oseltamivir?
Oseltamivir phosphate is a medicine used to prevent the flu. For adults, the usual dose to prevent getting sick (prophylaxis) is one 75mg capsule or 12.5 mL of liquid once a day. If you've been exposed to the flu, you'll take it for 10 days. If there's a widespread flu outbreak in your community, you might take it for up to 6 weeks, or 12 weeks if your immune system is weak (immunocompromised). Children's doses are different and depend on their weight; check the instructions. *Prophylaxis* means preventing a disease before it happens. *Immunocompromised* means having a weakened immune system.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Oseltamivir with other prescription drugs?
Oseltamivir doesn't require dose changes when taken with amoxicillin (an antibiotic), acetaminophen (Tylenol), aspirin, cimetidine (an ulcer medication), antacids (like Maalox or Tums), rimantadine or amantadine (antiviral medications), or warfarin (a blood thinner). However, it's crucial to tell your doctor about *all* other medications, vitamins, supplements, or herbal remedies you're using. This is because sometimes drugs interact, meaning they can affect each other's effectiveness or cause unexpected side effects. Your doctor can help ensure your safety by knowing everything you're taking.
Can Oseltamivir be taken safely while breastfeeding?
While limited data exists on oseltamivir during breastfeeding, consultation with a healthcare provider is advisable before use.
Can Oseltamivir be taken safely while pregnant?
The safety of oseltamivir during pregnancy has not been fully established; it should only be used if clearly needed under a healthcare provider's guidance. Pregnant women should discuss their options with their doctor to ensure both maternal and fetal safety while considering treatment for influenza.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Oseltamivir?
Drinking alcohol while taking oseltamivir does not cause harmful interactions but may exacerbate some side effects like nausea or dizziness. It’s advisable for patients undergoing treatment for influenza to limit alcohol consumption during this time to enhance recovery outcomes and minimize discomfort associated with flu symptoms.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Oseltamivir?
Light exercise is generally safe while taking oseltamivir; however, individuals should listen closely to their bodies and avoid high-impact activities that may increase injury risk during recovery from influenza. Consulting with healthcare providers regarding specific exercise plans tailored to individual needs can promote safe physical activity during treatment.
Is Oseltamivir safe for the elderly?
Oseltamivir phosphate is generally as safe and effective for older adults (65 and up) as it is for younger people. However, people with kidney problems may need a different dose. * **Renal impairment:** This means the kidneys aren't working as well as they should. Creatinine clearance measures how well your kidneys filter waste. If your creatinine clearance is between 10-60 mL/minute, you need a lower dose of oseltamivir. * **ESRD (End-Stage Renal Disease):** This is severe kidney failure. If you have ESRD and are on dialysis (a treatment to filter your blood), you'll need a adjusted dose. If you have ESRD but *aren't* on dialysis, oseltamivir isn't recommended. * **Hepatic impairment:** This means your liver isn't working properly. If you have mild to moderate liver problems, you don't need a different dose.
Who should avoid taking Oseltamivir?
Individuals with known hypersensitivity to oseltamivir or any components of its formulation should avoid using this medication. Additionally, those with severe renal impairment may require dosage adjustments or alternative treatments due to potential accumulation of the drug in their system. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using oseltamivir to discuss potential risks and benefits based on their specific circumstances.
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