Fluvir
Fluvir Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Fluvir is a brand name. Its generic name is Oseltamivir.
Fluvir Introduction
Fluvir, also known as Tamiflu, is an antiviral medication used to treat and prevent influenza (flu) and other respiratory illnesses caused by influenza virus types A and B. It is currently the most widely prescribed treatment for influenza and is approved for use in both adults and children.
Uses For
Fluvir is used to treat flu symptoms caused by influenza virus in adults and children who are at least 2 weeks old. It is also used to prevent certain types of flu in adults and children who are at least 1 year old. Fluvir may also be used to prevent infection in people with the flu after they have been exposed to the virus. It may reduce the chance of having the flu if taken within the first 48 hours after exposure.
Mechanism of Action
Fluvir works by preventing the influenza virus from spreading within the body. It works by blocking certain activities of an enzyme called neuraminidase, which is an essential part of virus replication. Without this enzyme, the virus cannot spread and causes the symptoms of the flu to go away.
How Long Does It Take To Work
It typically takes one to three days for oseltamivir to start to work. In some cases, it can take up to five days. It is important to take oseltamivir as soon as possible after you start to experience flu symptoms so that the medication can work more quickly. Taking oseltamivir within the first 48 hours after symptoms appear is most effective.
Absorption
Fluvir is quickly and completely absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, after oral administration. Maximum plasma concentrations are reached 1-2 hours after dosing.
Route of Elimination
Fluvir is mainly eliminated via the kidneys. Approximately 70-77% of a dose of oseltamivir is excreted unchanged in the urine.
Dosage
Fluvir comes in capsules to be taken orally, or as a powder for making a suspension or solution. The dosage and how often it should be taken depends on a person's age and whether it is used to treat or prevent influenza. It is important to complete the entire course of therapy as prescribed by your doctor.
Administration
Fluvir is administered orally as a capsule or suspension. For adults, the usual dose is 75mg twice daily for 5 days. For children, the dosage is adjusted according to the child’s weight.
Side Effect
Common side effects of oseltamivir include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort, headache, and dizziness. It may also cause allergic reactions such as rash, hives, and difficulty breathing.
Toxicity
Fluvir is generally well-tolerated. It is not known to be toxic at recommended doses. An overdose of oseltamivir can cause symptoms such as confusion, agitation, rapid heartbeat, and seizures. If an overdose is suspected, seek medical help right away.
Precaution
It is important to inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking before taking oseltamivir, as it may interact with certain medications. In addition, it is important to tell your doctor if you are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant. Children should not take oseltamivir unless a doctor has specifically prescribed it.
Interaction
Fluvir may interact with other medications, including antibiotics, antifungals, blood thinners, and seizure medications. It is important to inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking before taking oseltamivir.
Disease Interaction
Fluvir should be used with caution in people with kidney or liver impairment, as well as those with a history of seizures. In addition, people with diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels more closely when taking oseltamivir.
Drug Interaction
Fluvir can interact with certain medications, including antibiotics, antifungals, blood thinners, and seizure medications. It is important to inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking before taking oseltamivir.
Food Interactions
Fluvir can interact with certain foods, including dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol. It is important to discuss any dietary restrictions or food allergies with your doctor before taking oseltamivir.
Pregnancy Use
Fluvir is not recommended for use in pregnant women unless the benefit outweighs the risks. It is important for pregnant women to consult a doctor before taking oseltamivir. Animal studies have not shown any harm to the fetus, but studies in humans have not been conducted.
Lactation Use
Fluvir is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women unless the benefit outweighs the risks. It is important for breastfeeding women to consult a doctor before taking oseltamivir.
Acute Overdose
Acute overdose of oseltamivir can cause symptoms such as confusion, agitation, rapid heartbeat, and seizures. If an overdose is suspected, seek medical help right away.
Contraindication
Fluvir should not be used in people who are allergic to any of the ingredients in the medication. It should also not be used in people with an underlying liver or kidney disorder. It should be used with caution in people with diabetes or a history of seizures.
Use Direction
Fluvir should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. The dosage and how often it should be taken depends on a person's age and whether it is used to treat or prevent influenza. It is important to complete the entire course of therapy as prescribed by your doctor.
Storage Condition
Fluvir should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. It should be kept out of reach of children. Keep the medication in the original container it came in.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of oseltamivir is approximately 17 L/kg.
Half Life
The half-life of oseltamivir is approximately 7-9 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of oseltamivir is approximately 1.9 L/h/kg.
Dosage Information in Details
- For Treating Flu:
- Adults aged 18 and over: 75 mg twice daily for 5 days
- Children aged 1-17: 10 mg per kg of body weight twice daily for 5 days, up to 75 mg per dose
- For Preventing Flu:
- Adults aged 18 and over: 75 mg once daily for 10 days or until contact with an infected person has stopped
- Children aged 1-17: 10 mg per kg of body weight once daily for 10 days or until contact with an infected person has stopped, up to 75 mg per dose
Here you find in details version of Fluvir
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Fluvir
What is Fluvir?
Fluvir is an antiviral medication that is used to treat and prevent influenza, or the flu, caused by influenza A and B virus.
How does Fluvir work?
Fluvir works by blocking the action of the neuraminidase enzyme of influenza A and B viruses. This prevents the virus from replicating and spreading in the body.
What are the side effects of Fluvir?
The most common side effects of Fluvir include nausea, vomiting, headache, and diarrhea. Other more serious side effects have also been reported.
How is Fluvir taken?
Fluvir is usually taken twice daily as a capsule or suspension. It can also be taken orally as a tablet.
Who should not take Fluvir?
Fluvir should not be taken by people who are allergic to it or other medications in the same group. It should also not be taken by people who have kidney or liver problems.
When should I start taking Fluvir?
Fluvir should be taken as soon as possible once influenza symptoms start. It is most effective when taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Fluvir?
If you miss a dose of Fluvir, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule.
How long does it take for Fluvir to work?
Fluvir usually takes 1 to 2 days for the effects to be noticeable. Treatment should continue for the full course of 5 days for the influenza virus to be fully eliminated.
How long does Fluvir stay in the body?
Fluvir is typically eliminated from the body within 2 days of the last dose. In some cases, it may take up to 4 or 5 days for the drug to be completely eliminated.
What should I do if I experience side effects from taking Fluvir?
Most side effects of Fluvir are mild and do not require medical attention. However, if you experience any serious side effects, you should contact your doctor or get medical help immediately.
Can pregnant women take Fluvir?
Pregnant women should consult their doctor before taking Fluvir as it has not been studied in pregnant women. However, it is generally considered safe to take in the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.
Is Fluvir safe for children?
Yes, Fluvir is safe for children over 1 year of age, though the dosage should be adjusted according to the child's weight. Children younger than 1 year should not take Fluvir.
Can Fluvir be taken with other medications?
Fluvir should not be taken with certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, as they may increase the risk of side effects. Before taking Fluvir, you should consult with your doctor to make sure it is safe to take with your other medications.
Can Fluvir be taken with alcohol?
Fluvir should not be taken with alcohol as it may increase the risk of side effects. It is best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
Can I take Fluvir and ibuprofen together?
No, you should not take Fluvir and ibuprofen together as this can increase the risk of side effects. It is best to avoid taking ibuprofen while taking Fluvir.
Does Fluvir interfere with birth control pills?
No, Fluvir does not interfere with birth control pills. However, it is best to consult your doctor before taking Fluvir and any medications.
Will Fluvir help my cold?
No, Fluvir will not help a cold as it is an antiviral medication designed to treat and prevent influenza, or the flu, caused by influenza A and B virus. Antibiotics are not effective against colds or the flu.
Is Fluvir effective against other flu viruses?
Yes, Fluvir is effective against influenza A and B viruses, but not other viruses such as adenoviruses or parainfluenza viruses.
Can Fluvir be used to prevent the flu?
Yes, Fluvir can be used to prevent the flu if it is taken once daily for 10 days. Fluvir is most effective when taken within 48 hours of exposure to the flu virus.
Can Fluvir reduce the duration of the flu?
Yes, Fluvir can reduce the duration of the flu if taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. It is most effective when taken within 12 hours, and should be taken for the full course of 5 days.
Does Fluvir cause drowsiness?
No, Fluvir does not usually cause drowsiness. However, certain side effects such as headache, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can cause fatigue and drowsiness.
What is the recommended dosage for Fluvir?
The recommended dosage of Fluvir for adults is 75 milligrams twice daily for 5 days. The dosage should be adjusted according to the age and weight of the patient.
Does Fluvir have any drug interactions?
Yes, Fluvir has several drug interactions. Certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, should not be taken with Fluvir as they may increase the risk of side effects. It is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting Fluvir.
Is Fluvir a cure for the flu?
No, Fluvir is not a cure for the flu. It is an antiviral medication used to treat and prevent influenza caused by influenza A and B virus. Treatment should be continued for the full course of 5 days.
Can Fluvir be used to treat other viral infections?
No, Fluvir is used specifically to treat and prevent influenza caused by influenza A and B virus. It should not be used to treat other viral infections such as the common cold.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Fluvir?
If you experience an allergic reaction after taking Fluvir, such as a rash, itching, hives, or difficulty breathing, you should stop taking the medication and seek medical attention immediately.
Does Fluvir have to be taken with food?
No, Fluvir does not have to be taken with food. However, some people may find that taking Fluvir with food reduces the risk of nausea and other gastrointestinal side effects.
Can Fluvir be taken by patients with kidney problems?
No, Fluvir should not be taken by patients with kidney problems as it may lead to an accumulation of the drug in the body and increase the risk of side effects.
Can Fluvir be used to treat bacterial infections?
No, Fluvir is an antiviral medication that is used to treat and prevent influenza caused by influenza A and B virus. It should not be used to treat bacterial infections.
Does Fluvir interact with herbal supplements?
Yes, Fluvir may interact with certain herbal supplements, so it is important to tell your doctor about all supplements and herbal remedies you are taking before starting Fluvir.
Can Fluvir be used by people with liver problems?
No, Fluvir should not be taken by people with liver problems as it may lead to an accumulation of the drug in the body and increase the risk of side effects.
Are there any other antiviral medications similar to Fluvir?
Yes, there are several other antiviral medications similar to Fluvir, such as Zanamivir and Peramivir. These medications also work by blocking the action of the neuraminidase enzyme of influenza A and B viruses.
Is Fluvir sold over-the-counter?
No, Fluvir is not sold over-the-counter. In the US, Fluvir requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Are there any natural alternatives to Fluvir?
Yes, there are several natural remedies that can help to reduce the symptoms associated with the flu, such as gargling with salt water, drinking herbal teas, taking vitamin C, and getting plenty of rest and fluids.
Does Fluvir cause weight gain?
No, Fluvir does not usually cause weight gain. However, certain side effects such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can cause weight loss.
Can Fluvir be used long-term?
No, Fluvir should not be used long-term as it is an antiviral medication that is only used to treat and prevent influenza caused by influenza A and B virus. Treatment should be continued for the full course of 5 days.
Is Fluvir available in generic form?
Yes, Fluvir is available in generic form and is usually less expensive than the brand-name version.
Can Fluvir be used to treat the common cold?
No, Fluvir is an antiviral medication that is used to treat and prevent influenza, or the flu, caused by influenza A and B virus. It should not be used to treat the common cold.
What is the recommended dosage for Fluvir in children?
The recommended dosage of Fluvir for children over one year of age is 1 milligram per kilogram of body weight twice daily for 5 days. The dosage should be adjusted according to the age and weight of the child.