Tamiflu is a medication that can be used to treat the influenza viruses, the flu. Tamiflu can also reduce the chance of getting the flu if there is a flu outbreak in the community. This winter the United States in ill prepared for the Asian bird virus. We do not have enough stock on hand of this medicine. If you have not done so, now is the time to order from a pharmacy in Canada.
Tamiflu is indicated for treating adults, adolescents, and pediatric patients 1year of age and older with the flu (influenza) whose flu symptoms started within the last day or two. Tamiflu is also used to reduce the chance of getting the flu in people age 13 and older who have a higher chance of getting the flu because they spend time with someone who has the flu.
If your considering taking a cruise this is a good medicine to have in your bag as a precaution. You will need a prescription to get the medicine from Canada.
Tamiflu
Important Note
IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
Uses
Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) is a prescription medication that is used to treat some types of influenza and illness caused by the flu viruses (influenza). Oseltamivir is also used to prevent the flu for those who are exposed, such as the family members of the patient, thus helping to reduce the chance of getting the flu when there is a flu outbreak in the community.
How to Use Tamiflu
Take Tamiflu orally as directed by a doctor. You may take Tamiflu with food or milk to minimize stomach upset. Take it as soon as flu symptoms appear or as soon as possible after you have been exposed, possibly within 48 hours. If you came down with the flu, take Tamiflu twice a day for 5 days: once in the morning and once in the evening, completing the entire 10 doses. To prevent the flu, take Tamiflu once a day for at least 7 days or take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Tamiflu works best if this medicine is kept at a constant level in your body. Therefore, try to take Tamiflu at a fixed time each day. Stopping the medication too early may result in a relapse of the infection. Inform your doctor if your condition worsens or if new symptoms appear.
Precautions
Tamiflu has not been shown to treat flu-like illnesses caused by any virus other than influenza A and B. Thus, it will not treat stomach flu, common cold, or other respiratory illnesses, which are not caused by influenza viruses. There are many types of viruses that cause symptoms that are not easy to distinguish from flu. Contact your health care provider if you feel worse or develop new symptoms during or after treatment, or if your influenza symptoms do not improve after taking Tamiflu. Tamiflu should not be administered to the patients under the age 1.
Tamiflu Side Effects
If nausea occurs, persists, or worsens, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Notify your doctor immediately if you have any of these rare but serious side effects: dizziness, vomiting, persistent cough, persistent weakness, fever, or sore throat.
Storage
Store Tamiflu at room temperature away from light, moisture, and heat.