What is Tamiflu?
Tamiflu (oseltamivir) is an anti-viral medication that is used for the treatment and prevention of influenza (flu virus), including avian influenza (bird flu). Available in both tablet form and as a suspension, Tamiflu can be given to adults and children more than 1year of age who present with flu symptoms. But, Tamiflu is known to work effectively when the flu treatment is initiated within two days of the first onset of symptoms. In addition, Tamiflu can be used as a preventive treatment also.
For adults and adolescents 13 years or older, the recommended oral dose is 75mg oseltamivir twice daily, for 5 days. For children one year or older, Tamiflu oral suspension is available. Children with body weight of 40 kg and above may be prescribed the adult dosage of 75mg twice daily for 5 days. Tamiflu:
• Can ease ailments that accompany flu (like weakness, cough, headache, fever, sore throat)
• Could prevent the flu onset even if the patient has been exposed to someone who suffers from it
Tamiflu works by inhibiting the neuraminidase enzyme that stops the spread of the virus to other cells in the body. Tamiflu is available for the treatment of influenza in more than 80 countries worldwide.
Who should buy Tamiflu?
People who are eligible to take Tamiflu are:
• People who do not have any kidney disease, liver disease, viral infections besides influenza A / B, heart problems, lung problems or any other chronic or serious illnesses
• Pregnant mothers should not use Tamiflu
• As it is not known whether Tamiflu passes into breast milk, it cannot be used by nursing mothers
• Infants above the age of one year
• People who complain of uncomplicated acute illness due to influenza infection and show symptoms for no more than 2 days