Tamiflu

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Tamiflu (Pictured: genuine Roche Tamiflu)

Prescription Drug Information, Side Effects & Interactions for Tamiflu

Uses
This medication is used to treat illness (symptoms) caused by the flu virus (influenza).

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.
Consult your doctor about the risks and benefits of receiving a yearly flu shot (vaccination) to prevent infection.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.

Tamiflu

How To Use

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: Take this medication by mouth, generally twice daily (once in the morning and once in the evening) for five days, or as directed by your doctor.
To minimize side effects (e.g., nausea), you may take this medication with food.
This medication should be started within 48 hours of the appearance of flu symptoms.
Symptoms of flu infection include fever, cough, headache, fatigue, weakness and sore throat.
This medication works best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level.
Take the drug at evenly spaced intervals (e.g., every 12 hours).
Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms improve.
Stopping the medication too early may allow the virus to continue to grow, resulting in a relapse of the infection.

Side Effects

Nausea may occur.
If this effect persists or worsens, notify your doctor promptly.
Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these unlikely but serious side effects: dizziness or persistent cough.
Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these very unlikely but serious side effects: persistent weakness, fever or sore throat.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, including any allergies or kidney problems.
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery.
Limit alcoholic beverages.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
If it is near the time of the next dose (within two hours), skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
Do not double the dose to catch up.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.