Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)

Do's: 

• Read the Patient Information Leaflet from your pharmacist before starting Tamiflu, if available. 
• Consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions. 
• Take Tamiflu by mouth with or without food. 
• Start taking Tamiflu as soon as flu symptoms appear or as soon as possible after exposure to the flu, ideally within 2 days of these events. 
• Take Tamiflu twice a day for 5 days for treatment of the flu, as directed by your healthcare provider. 
• Take Tamiflu once a day for at least 10 days for prevention of the flu, as directed by your healthcare provider. 
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for the duration of the treatment. 
• Ask your healthcare provider about the liquid suspension form of Tamiflu if you cannot swallow the capsules. 
• Take this medication at the same time(s) every day to help you remember. 
• Continue taking Tamiflu for the full-time prescribed, even if symptoms disappear after a few days as stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection or failure to protect you from the flu. 
• Tell your healthcare provider if your condition lasts or gets worse, or if new symptoms appear. 

Don'ts: 

• Do not stop taking Tamiflu too early, as it may result in a return of the infection or failure to protect you from the flu. 

The dosage is based on your medical condition, kidney function, and response to treatment. The dosage for children is also based on weight. If the liquid is not available and if directed by your healthcare provider, you may open up the capsule and mix the contents with a small amount of sweetened liquid. Stir the mixture and take the entire dose. 

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea and vomiting, typically occur in the first 2 days of treatment. Taking Tamiflu with food may help lessen the chance of experiencing these side effects.
• Stomach (abdominal) pain
• Nosebleeds
• Headache
• Feeling tired (fatigue) 

Serious Side Effects:

• Mental health changes in children and severe skin reactions. These side effects are rare but may require urgent medical care.
• Phlegm-producing cough
• Wheezing
• Abdominal or stomach cramps
• Diarrhea (including severe and bloody diarrhea)
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Fast or irregular heartbeat.

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any side effects while taking Tamiflu.

Pregnant and nursing women are advised to talk with a healthcare provider before using Tamiflu. 

Tamiflu may cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, or serious skin reactions. Stop taking Tamiflu and seek immediate medical attention if an allergic-like reaction occurs or is suspected.

There is a risk of neuropsychiatric events in Tamiflu-treated patients with influenza. Patients should be instructed to contact their healthcare provider if they experience signs of abnormal behavior while receiving Tamiflu.

Follow the dosing instructions provided by the healthcare provider. Inactivated influenza vaccine can be administered at any time relative to the use of Tamiflu

Tamiflu is contraindicated in patients with known serious hypersensitivity to oseltamivir or any component of the product.

Consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance and to ensure the safe and appropriate use of Tamiflu.