Oseltamivir is an antiviral which inhibits growth and shedding of Influenza A and B viruses. It prevents the influenza virus from spreading inside the body therefore helping to relieve or prevent the symptoms arising from influenza virus infection.
The most common side effects of Oseltamivir are:
These side effects mostly occur after the first dose of the medicine and will usually stop as treatment continues. The frequency of these side effects is reduced if the medication is taken with food. Inform your doctor if the side effects become severe and bothersome.
Rare but serious side effects may manifest as the following symptoms. Contact your doctor as soon as possible, if you notice any of the following:
If you or your child is often sick (vomiting) while taking the medicine, you should inform your doctor. You should also tell your doctor if the influenza symptoms get worse or the fever persists.
Treatment
You must use (or give to your child) the amount of Oseltamivir as prescribed by your doctor.
The usual dose for treatment of influenza in children depends on the age or weight (for <12 months) or body weight (for ≥12 months) of the child as indicated below
Children <12 months:
*Follow weight based dosing as prescribed by your doctor if available
Children ≥ 12 months, up to adults:
Prevention
Oseltamivir can also be used to prevent influenza following exposure to an infected individual. You must use (or give to your child) the amount of Oseltamivir as prescribed by your doctor.
Oseltamivir should be taken once daily for 10 days. It is best taken in the mornings with breakfast.
The usual dose for prevention of influenza in children depends on the age or weight (for <12 months) or body weight (for ≥12 months) of the child as indicated below:
Children <12 months*:
Taking Oseltamivir capsule with food will reduce the potential for stomach upset.
As powder from the capsules can be irritating to the skin and eyes, open the capsules with care. If powder comes in contact with eyes or skin, rinse with plenty of water immediately.
As Oseltamivir is very bitter and the taste can be masked by mixing the contents of the capsule(s) with sweetened liquids as indicated below:
For patients who cannot swallow the capsules:
The following sweetened liquids are:
* Allow these drinks to cool to room temperature before medication is added.
If you forget to take (or give your child) a dose, take (or give) the missed dose as soon as you remember, except if it is near the next dose (within 2 hours). Then continue to take (or give) the Oseltamivir capsule at the usual times. Do not double or increase the dose.
If you (or your child) have missed several doses, inform your doctor and follow the advice given. If you (or your child) vomit within 15 minutes of administration, take (or give) another dose if possible.
Some medication may reduce its efficacy, or increase its toxicity. Do not take (or give your child) any other medications or herbal products without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
Pregnancy
To date, there are no controlled studies in pregnant women and insufficient clinical experience to confirm its safety in pregnancy. However, as pregnant women might be at a higher risk of severe complications from influenza, and the benefits of treatment or prophylaxis is likely to outweigh the theoretical risks of antiviral use, individuals prescribed with Oseltamivir are highly encouraged to comply with treatment.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding while taking Oseltamivir can be continued. Breastfeeding provides antibodies to the infant which makes them less vulnerable. Whenever possible, breastfeed infant or express breast milk before taking Oseltamivir to minimize the infant’s exposure.
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