Oltavir
Oltavir Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Oltavir is a brand name. Its generic name is Oseltamivir.
Oltavir Introduction
Oltavir, 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
Oltavir 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. Oltavir 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
Oltavir 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
Oltavir 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
Oltavir is mainly eliminated via the kidneys. Approximately 70-77% of a dose of oseltamivir is excreted unchanged in the urine.
Dosage
Oltavir 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
Oltavir 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
Oltavir 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
Oltavir 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
Oltavir 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
Oltavir 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
Oltavir 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
Oltavir 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
Oltavir 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
Oltavir 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
Oltavir 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
Oltavir 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 Oltavir
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Oltavir
What is Oltavir?
Oltavir is an antiviral medication that is used to treat and prevent influenza, or the flu, caused by influenza A and B virus.
How does Oltavir work?
Oltavir 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 Oltavir?
The most common side effects of Oltavir include nausea, vomiting, headache, and diarrhea. Other more serious side effects have also been reported.
How is Oltavir taken?
Oltavir is usually taken twice daily as a capsule or suspension. It can also be taken orally as a tablet.
Who should not take Oltavir?
Oltavir 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 Oltavir?
Oltavir 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 Oltavir?
If you miss a dose of Oltavir, 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 Oltavir to work?
Oltavir 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 Oltavir stay in the body?
Oltavir 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 Oltavir?
Most side effects of Oltavir 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 Oltavir?
Pregnant women should consult their doctor before taking Oltavir 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 Oltavir safe for children?
Yes, Oltavir 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 Oltavir.
Can Oltavir be taken with other medications?
Oltavir should not be taken with certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, as they may increase the risk of side effects. Before taking Oltavir, you should consult with your doctor to make sure it is safe to take with your other medications.
Can Oltavir be taken with alcohol?
Oltavir 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 Oltavir and ibuprofen together?
No, you should not take Oltavir and ibuprofen together as this can increase the risk of side effects. It is best to avoid taking ibuprofen while taking Oltavir.
Does Oltavir interfere with birth control pills?
No, Oltavir does not interfere with birth control pills. However, it is best to consult your doctor before taking Oltavir and any medications.
Will Oltavir help my cold?
No, Oltavir 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 Oltavir effective against other flu viruses?
Yes, Oltavir is effective against influenza A and B viruses, but not other viruses such as adenoviruses or parainfluenza viruses.
Can Oltavir be used to prevent the flu?
Yes, Oltavir can be used to prevent the flu if it is taken once daily for 10 days. Oltavir is most effective when taken within 48 hours of exposure to the flu virus.
Can Oltavir reduce the duration of the flu?
Yes, Oltavir 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 Oltavir cause drowsiness?
No, Oltavir 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 Oltavir?
The recommended dosage of Oltavir 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 Oltavir have any drug interactions?
Yes, Oltavir has several drug interactions. Certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, should not be taken with Oltavir 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 Oltavir.
Is Oltavir a cure for the flu?
No, Oltavir 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 Oltavir be used to treat other viral infections?
No, Oltavir 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 Oltavir?
If you experience an allergic reaction after taking Oltavir, such as a rash, itching, hives, or difficulty breathing, you should stop taking the medication and seek medical attention immediately.
Does Oltavir have to be taken with food?
No, Oltavir does not have to be taken with food. However, some people may find that taking Oltavir with food reduces the risk of nausea and other gastrointestinal side effects.
Can Oltavir be taken by patients with kidney problems?
No, Oltavir 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 Oltavir be used to treat bacterial infections?
No, Oltavir 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 Oltavir interact with herbal supplements?
Yes, Oltavir 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 Oltavir.
Can Oltavir be used by people with liver problems?
No, Oltavir 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 Oltavir?
Yes, there are several other antiviral medications similar to Oltavir, such as Zanamivir and Peramivir. These medications also work by blocking the action of the neuraminidase enzyme of influenza A and B viruses.
Is Oltavir sold over-the-counter?
No, Oltavir is not sold over-the-counter. In the US, Oltavir requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Are there any natural alternatives to Oltavir?
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 Oltavir cause weight gain?
No, Oltavir does not usually cause weight gain. However, certain side effects such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can cause weight loss.
Can Oltavir be used long-term?
No, Oltavir 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 Oltavir available in generic form?
Yes, Oltavir is available in generic form and is usually less expensive than the brand-name version.
Can Oltavir be used to treat the common cold?
No, Oltavir 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 Oltavir in children?
The recommended dosage of Oltavir 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.