Tamiflu (generic ingredient: oseltamivir phosphate) is a medicine to treat 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 flu at its source by attacking the virus that causes the flu, rather than simply masking symptoms. Each Tamiflu capsule (grey/light yellow) contains 75 mg of active drug and should be taken by mouth. Oseltamivir is indicated for the treatment of influenza in patients who have had symptoms for no more than 2 days. It also is approved for prevention of influenza in children (one year and older) and adults. Typical symptoms of flu include sudden onset of fever and chills, cough, muscle pain, headache, fatigue and weakness. Some people also get a stuffy nose and sore throat. Tamiflu trade mark is made by Roche Laboratories, Inc., and was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on (FDA) October 27, 1999.


 

FAQ

What is Avian Influenza - Bird Flu?
At this time avian influenza (H5N1), also known as bird flu, is a disease of wild birds and domesticated poultry like farm chickens, ducks, and turkeys. Although millions of birds have been infected, only a very small number of people have been infected (see www.sfdph.org/cdcp for exact numbers). Because all influenza viruses have the ability to change there is concern that the H5N1 virus could mutate and be spread easily and widely by humans. If that happens, it is possible that a pandemic or widespread outbreak of disease could occur. World health organizations and the San Francisco Department of Public Health are monitoring the situation and making plans to control avian influenza.

What should I know before taking Tamiflu?
Tamiflu's safety and effectiveness have not yet been assessed in people with chronic heart or lung disease, kidney failure, or in people with underlying high-risk medical conditions. Tamiflu has not been shown to treat flu-like illnesses caused by any viruses other than influenza A and B. Other kinds of infections similar to influenza (or that occur along with influenza) need different types of treatment. Tamiflu is not recommended for treatment or prevention of the flu in pediatric patients less than 1 year of age.

Will taking Tamiflu prevent me from spreading the flu?
While taking Tamiflu can reduce the chance of getting the flu, it will not stop you from giving it to others. In order to prevent the spread of the flu, wash your hands frequently and avoid situations such as sharing cups and utensils.

If I'm taking Tamiflu, should I still receive my annual flu vaccination?
Yes. Tamiflu does not replace the flu vaccine. You should continue to receive your annual flu shot if recommended by your healthcare professional.

What should I tell my healthcare professional before he or she prescribes Tamiflu?
Tell your healthcare professional if you: are allergic to Tamiflu, to any of its ingredients in its liquid form, or to any other medications; take or plan to take any other prescription and/or nonprescription medications, including vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products; have ever taken Tamiflu to treat or prevent the flu; are immunocompromised (have HIV or AIDS); are taking immunosuppressant medications, cancer chemotherapy medications, methotrexate, sirolimus, oral steroids, or tacrolimus; have any type of heart, lung, or kidney disease; or are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

Tamiflu side effects

Tamiflu may cause side effects. Tell your healthcare professional if any of the following symptoms are severe and/or persistent: nausea; stomach pain; vomiting; diarrhea; headache; difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep; cough; or dizziness.
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms call your healthcare professional immediately: rash, hives, or blisters on the skin; itching; swelling of the face or tongue; difficulty breathing or swallowing; or hoarseness.