What is Tamiflu and what is it used for?
Tamiflu is a medication used to treat and even prevent flu (influenza) in adults, adolescents, children, and infants. Tamiflu contains the active ingredient oseltamivir, which belongs to a group of medicines called neuraminidase inhibitors. They prevent the flu virus from spreading in the body while easing or preventing the symptoms of a flu virus infection.
How does it work?
The active ingredient oseltamivir inhibits the formation of an enzyme neuraminidase, which the flu virus needs to spread in the airways. Therefore, it reduces the influenza virus growth and helps your body’s immune system fight off the infection.
How should I take Tamiflu?
The recommended dose of Tamiflu depends on your body weight. Those with a weight of 40kg and above should take a dose of 75mg twice a day to treat flu. It is very important to complete the 5-day course to kill off the virus, even if you feel better before then.
For preventing flu, take one dose whole daily for 10 days with your breakfast.
What are the side effects of Tamiflu?
Like all medications, Tamiflu can have some side effects. About one in ten people using Tamiflu can experience:
- nausea
- headache
- runny nose
- fever
Information Leaflet
Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.
Important: We advise you to always read the patient information leaflet inside the medication box, as the generic medication may not always entirely match the patient information leaflet listed. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Authored by:
Carolina Goncalves
Superintendent
Pharmacist
Reviewed by:
Rehma Gill
Pharmacy
Manager
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Content last updated: 22 Dec 2022