TAMIFLU (OSELTAMIVIR)

Tamiflu Description

Tamiflu is an oral antiviral drug prescribed to reduce type A and B flu symptoms if diagnosed within two days of exposure to the flu or at the onset of symptoms. Taking Tamiflu more than two days after the onset of symptoms will still help those that may be hit harder by the flu symptoms and could run the risk of possible pneumonia. If you have trouble swallowing pills, talk to your doctor about an injection of Tamiflu Suspension.

How Does Tamiflu Help Treat Type A and B Flu Symptoms?

Tamiflu or generic Oseltamivir blocks the action of an enzyme called neuraminidase that is essential to the virus in order for it to be able to spread from infected cells to healthy cells. This will decrease the amount of virus in your body so symptoms of body aches, chills, and fever do not last as long. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

You will be considered contagious from the time you become infected until 5 to 7 days after your symptoms have developed, which usually occurs 1-3 days after being infected. To help avoid passing the flu around to your family, friends, and co-workers, it’s ideal to stay home for at least 5 days and take measures to ensure you do not pass the virus on, including covering your mouth when you cough, not sharing eating utensils, drinking glasses or cups, and keeping items and surfaces cleaned off after touching them.

Information About Type A and B Influenza

Type A flu is spread by the people that are already infected through touching surfaces or items during their travels and from sneezing or coughing in close proximity to others. Wild birds are the host to this virus and their droppings are a prime source for spreading it to humans and other birds.

Type B flu is found only in humans and tends to cause a less severe reaction than those experienced with type A virus. Yearly flu vaccines can help you prevent infection with this virus and is encouraged for those with other health conditions, the elderly, and for healthcare workers that have the greatest exposure to infection. At one time, we only heard about “the flu”, but now there are types A, B, and C with many subtypes that are constantly changing.

Taking steps to avoid being infected by the flu can be difficult if you are exposed to the throngs of people working, playing, and shopping. Those with a quieter lifestyle may have a higher chance of controlling the likelihood of infection.

Before You Take Tamiflu

Some medications may interact with Tamiflu so provide your doctor with a list of OTC and Rx drugs you are taking, including vitamin supplements and homeopathic remedies. Discuss other medical conditions or allergies you have that may interfere with taking Tamiflu safely.

Tamiflu Precautions

Ask your doctor about potential risks for an unborn or nursing baby if you are pregnant or breast-feeding while taking Tamiflu. There is no cure for the flu, but Tamiflu is one way of decreasing the time you will have to withstand the symptoms.

Possible Side Effects of Tamiflu

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache