Tamiflu

Tamiflu Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Tamiflu is a brand name. Its generic name is Oseltamivir.

Tamiflu Introduction

Tamiflu, 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

Tamiflu 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. Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu is mainly eliminated via the kidneys. Approximately 70-77% of a dose of oseltamivir is excreted unchanged in the urine.

Dosage

Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu 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

Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Tamiflu

What is Tamiflu?

Tamiflu is an antiviral medication that is used to treat and prevent influenza, or the flu, caused by influenza A and B virus.

How does Tamiflu work?

Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu?

The most common side effects of Tamiflu include nausea, vomiting, headache, and diarrhea. Other more serious side effects have also been reported.

How is Tamiflu taken?

Tamiflu is usually taken twice daily as a capsule or suspension. It can also be taken orally as a tablet.

Who should not take Tamiflu?

Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu?

Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu?

If you miss a dose of Tamiflu, 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 Tamiflu to work?

Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu stay in the body?

Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu?

Most side effects of Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu?

Pregnant women should consult their doctor before taking Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu safe for children?

Yes, Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu.

Can Tamiflu be taken with other medications?

Tamiflu should not be taken with certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, as they may increase the risk of side effects. Before taking Tamiflu, you should consult with your doctor to make sure it is safe to take with your other medications.

Can Tamiflu be taken with alcohol?

Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu and ibuprofen together?

No, you should not take Tamiflu and ibuprofen together as this can increase the risk of side effects. It is best to avoid taking ibuprofen while taking Tamiflu.

Does Tamiflu interfere with birth control pills?

No, Tamiflu does not interfere with birth control pills. However, it is best to consult your doctor before taking Tamiflu and any medications.

Will Tamiflu help my cold?

No, Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu effective against other flu viruses?

Yes, Tamiflu is effective against influenza A and B viruses, but not other viruses such as adenoviruses or parainfluenza viruses.

Can Tamiflu be used to prevent the flu?

Yes, Tamiflu can be used to prevent the flu if it is taken once daily for 10 days. Tamiflu is most effective when taken within 48 hours of exposure to the flu virus.

Can Tamiflu reduce the duration of the flu?

Yes, Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu cause drowsiness?

No, Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu?

The recommended dosage of Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu have any drug interactions?

Yes, Tamiflu has several drug interactions. Certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, should not be taken with Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu.

Is Tamiflu a cure for the flu?

No, Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu be used to treat other viral infections?

No, Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu?

If you experience an allergic reaction after taking Tamiflu, such as a rash, itching, hives, or difficulty breathing, you should stop taking the medication and seek medical attention immediately.

Does Tamiflu have to be taken with food?

No, Tamiflu does not have to be taken with food. However, some people may find that taking Tamiflu with food reduces the risk of nausea and other gastrointestinal side effects.

Can Tamiflu be taken by patients with kidney problems?

No, Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu be used to treat bacterial infections?

No, Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu interact with herbal supplements?

Yes, Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu.

Can Tamiflu be used by people with liver problems?

No, Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu?

Yes, there are several other antiviral medications similar to Tamiflu, such as Zanamivir and Peramivir. These medications also work by blocking the action of the neuraminidase enzyme of influenza A and B viruses.

Is Tamiflu sold over-the-counter?

No, Tamiflu is not sold over-the-counter. In the US, Tamiflu requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

Are there any natural alternatives to Tamiflu?

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 Tamiflu cause weight gain?

No, Tamiflu does not usually cause weight gain. However, certain side effects such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can cause weight loss.

Can Tamiflu be used long-term?

No, Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu available in generic form?

Yes, Tamiflu is available in generic form and is usually less expensive than the brand-name version.

Can Tamiflu be used to treat the common cold?

No, Tamiflu 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 Tamiflu in children?

The recommended dosage of Tamiflu 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.

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