Tamiflu® (oseltamivir)

WHAT IS IT 

Oral antiviral to treat or prevent flu (infection caused by influenza virus). It belongs to a group of medicines called neuraminidase inhibitors. These medications attack the influenza virus and prevent it from spreading inside your body.

TAMIFLU treats the influenza, the cause of flu at its source, rather than simply masking symptoms. Each TAMIFLU capsule (grey / light yellow) contains 75 mg of active drug and should be taken by mouth.

BEFORE YOU TAKE IT 

If you think that you have influenza, you should consult your health care professional (physician, pharmacist) before you take Tamiflu. Make sure you take Tamiflu within 48 hours from the onset of symptoms. The earlier you take it, the better the results.

HOW TO TAKE IT 

For treatment of influenza in adults: The recommended oral dose of Tamiflu is 1 capsule of 75mg, twice daily for 5 days. You do not have to take it together with food, but in some cases patients have reported that it helps them to take Tamiflu together with some bread or similar food. Treatment should begin within 2 days of onset of symptoms of influenza, but the earlier treatment starts the better.

For prevention of influenza in adults (that is if you live or work among other individuals who are suffering from influenza and therefore you have a high chance of catching that highly contagious disease, from family members living together, in the office environment, during the Haj pilgrimage etc): Take 1 capsule of Tamiflu 75mg, once daily for as long as you feel you are in close contact with influenza sufferers.

For treatment or prevention in children and adolescents (< 18 years in the Middle East, < 12 years in the USA and Far East): Up to this date Tamiflu syrup is not yet registered in the Middle East. As soon as the registration is received, Hoffmann-La Roche will inform you on how to give the Tamiflu suspension / syrup to children.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS 

Tamiflu is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are nausea and vomiting. Taking Tamiflu with food may reduce the potential of these side effects. If you notice any side effect not mentioned, or if you have any concerns about the side effects you are experiencing, please inform your health care professional.

STORING IT 

Tamiflu should be stored at room temperature below 25 degrees Celsius, preferable in a dry place.

Keep this medication out of the reach of children.

FURTHER INFORMATION 

You can get more information on Tamiflu from your Doctor or pharmacist.