Tamiflu

Why should Tamiflu not be prescribed?

If Tamiflu gives you an allergic reaction, avoid it in the future.

Special warnings about Tamiflu

If you have kidney disease, the doctor may have to cut your daily dose of Tamiflu in half.

The effectiveness of Tamiflu has not been established for people with weakened immune systems. The drug has not been studied in people with liver disease.

Tamiflu works only on the flu virus. It won't stop bacterial infections that may have flu-like symptoms or bacterial infections that may develop while you have the flu. If your symptoms persist, check with your doctor.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Tamiflu

No interactions have been reported.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

It is not known whether Tamiflu is completely safe during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor before taking this medication. Tamiflu may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. Taking it while breastfeeding is usually not recommended.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS AND CHILDREN 13 AND OLDER

Treatment of Influenza

The usual dosage is 75 milligrams taken twice daily (morning and evening) for 5 days. If you have kidney disease, take a 75-milligram dose once a day.

Prevention of Influenza

The usual dosage is 75 milligrams taken once a day for at least 7 days. If there is a general outbreak of the flu in your community, your doctor may recommend that you continue taking this medication for up to 6 weeks. If you have kidney disease, take a 75-milligram capsule every other day, or 30 milligrams of liquid once a day.

CHILDREN 1 TO 12

Treatment of Influenza

Doses should be given twice daily for 5 days using the dispenser that comes with the liquid suspension. Each dose is determined by the child's weight:

Under 33 pounds: 30 milligrams
33 to 55 pounds: 45 milligrams
51 to 88 pounds: 60 milligrams
Over 88 pounds: 75 milligrams
Tamiflu should not be used to treat the flu in children under 1 year old.

Prevention of Influenza

Tamiflu's ability to prevent the flu in children under age 13 has not been established.

Overdosage

High doses of Tamiflu can cause nausea and vomiting. As with any medication, if you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.