Relenza

Generic name: Zanamivir

Why is Relenza prescribed?

Relenza speeds recovery from the flu. When started during the first 2 days of the illness, it hastens improvement by at least a day. It also can prevent the flu if treatment is started within 2 days after exposure to the virus. Relenza belongs to a class of antiviral drugs called neuraminidase inhibitors.

As the flu virus takes hold in the body, it forms new copies of itself and spreads from cell to cell. Neuraminidase inhibitors fight the virus by preventing the release of new copies from infected cells. Relenza is taken by inhaling the medication through the mouth.

Most important fact about Relenza

Relenza can prevent the flu as long as you continue taking this medication, but getting a yearly flu shot is still the best way of avoiding the disease entirely. For older adults, those in high-risk situations such as health-care work, and people with an immune deficiency or respiratory disease, vaccination remains a must.

How should you take Relenza?

Relenza is delivered directly to the lungs by oral inhalation from a Diskhaler device. To benefit from the drug, you must begin taking it within 48 hours of feeling the first symptoms of flu, and must finish the entire 5-day course of treatment.

Be sure to take two doses on the first day, allowing at least 2 hours between them. On the following days, take a dose every 12 hours (morning and evening). Do not puncture a blister containing the drug until you are ready to use it.

Children should use this drug only under the supervision of an adult.

• If you miss a dose...
  Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

• Storage instructions...
  Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Symptoms experienced during Relenza therapy are virtually the same as those associated with untreated flu. Problems reported during clinical tests are listed below.