Tamiflu 75mg capsules at 123 Meds

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Tamiflu 75mg capsules

Category	Details
Type of Medicine	Antiviral medication
Health Conditions Prescribed For	Used to treat and prevent influenza (flu) in adults and children
Active Ingredients	Oseltamivir Phosphate
Brand Names	Tamiflu
Available Strengths	75 mg capsules, 6 mg/ml oral suspension
Available As	Oral capsules, oral suspension
Possible Side Effects	Nausea, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, stomach pain, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, and allergic reactions
Manufacturers	Genentech, a member of the Roche Group

What is Tamiflu Medication?

Tamiflu is an antiviral Medicine used to prevent and treat influenza (the flu). Tamiflu blocks the flu virus from reproducing within the body, which eases symptoms and duration of the flu. Both children and adults may use it and are typically given to those patients who have a greater chance of developing flu-related complications.

If administered in time, Tamiflu reduces the duration of the flu and can prevent flu from setting in in people exposed to the virus. Tamiflu exists in oral capsule and liquid suspension form, and hence, it can be used across all ages.

At 123Meds, we offer Sildenafil for the treatment of Flu only - if you are interested in using Sildenafil for any other condition, we would advise that you seek further review from your GP to determine whether it is an appropriate treatment option.

What is Tamiflu Used For?

Treatment for Flu: Tamiflu is prescribed to treat patients who have been diagnosed with flu (influenza), especially when taken within 48 hours after the onset of symptoms. It can alleviate the symptoms of the flu and speed up recovery.

Prevention of Flu: Tamiflu is also used to prevent flu in patients exposed to a person infected with the virus, thus preventing infection.

Preventing Flu Complications: Tamiflu can be used to prevent flu complications such as pneumonia in those who are at risk, for example, the elderly or those with compromised immune systems.

Reducing Virus Transmission: By minimising the severity of the symptoms, Tamiflu reduces the transmission of the flu virus to others.

How Tamiflu Works?

Tamiflu functions by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called neuraminidase. The neuraminidase enzyme is important for the replication of the flu virus in the body. Inhibiting neuraminidase causes the flu virus to be unable to infect other healthy cells, hence weakening the symptoms of the flu and reducing the length of illness.

Prevents Virus Spread: Tamiflu inhibits neuraminidase, the enzyme that releases new viral particles. This stops the virus from spreading to healthy cells.

Lessens Flu Symptoms: By restricting viral replication, Tamiflu lessens symptoms like fever, chills, and tiredness, making recovery simpler.

Prevents Future Infection: Tamiflu also prevents the virus from infecting other people, hence lessening the possibility of further infections in a community.

When to Take Tamiflu Medicine for Flu Virus?

Tamiflu is usually recommended when an individual has flu symptoms, particularly if the symptoms are severe to moderate. It is particularly crucial to begin taking the Medicine within 48 hours of symptom onset in order to gain the maximum benefits. Tamiflu is often prescribed to those who are at risk of developing flu complications, including:

Older adults: Older people tend to have compromised immunity, and they are, therefore, more likely to develop complications of the flu.

Pregnant women: Pregnant women are at risk of the flu, so antiviral medication is frequently prescribed to safeguard the mother as well as the infant.

Children and infants: Tamiflu will decrease the severity of the flu in children, particularly those with other chronic conditions such as asthma.

Individuals with chronic illnesses: Individuals with chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease might take Tamiflu to avoid serious flu complications.

Who should not use Tamiflu:

Individuals with allergies: If you have any allergy to the ingredients in Tamiflu, it shouldn't be taken.

Individuals with kidney problems: Tamiflu will have an effect on the kidneys, so individuals with kidney problems should use it cautiously.

Individuals with certain medical conditions: Always consult a healthcare provider before using Tamiflu if you have underlying conditions such as heart disease or liver disease.

Can Tamiflu be purchased Over the Counter?

No, Tamiflu is a prescription Medicine and cannot be bought over the counter. You must see a GP or healthcare professional who will determine if Tamiflu is appropriate for you. Only once a prescription has been written can you get the medication from a pharmacy.

Alternative Medications

There are a few other medications that can be prescribed to treat the flu if Tamiflu is not appropriate:

1. Relenza (Zanamivir): Similar to Tamiflu, Relenza is an antiviral Medicine that acts by blocking the neuraminidase enzyme.

2. Baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza): This is a newer Medicine that acts in a similar way to Tamiflu by preventing the flu virus from replicating.

3. Oseltamivir generics: Generic Tamiflu, which is cheaper but has the same active ingredient (oseltamivir), can be found.

Speak to your 123Meds prescriber if you are unsure about the best treatment for you.

How to Take Tamiflu Medication?

Tamiflu must be taken precisely as instructed by your physician. It is usually taken orally, either as a capsule or liquid suspension. Care must be taken to follow these guidelines in order to achieve effectiveness:

For the treatment of flu: Tamiflu is taken twice a day for 5 days. It works best when taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.

To prevent flu: Tamiflu is typically taken once a day for a maximum of 10 days following contact with the flu virus.

Take Tamiflu with or without food if it upsets your stomach. Swallow capsules whole with water, and shake the liquid suspension well before you measure it out.

Do not discontinue Tamiflu treatment early even if you feel better because doing so might not fully cure the infection.

Active Ingredients:

Oseltamivir Phosphate – This is the primary active ingredient that works to prevent the flu virus from replicating in the body.

Inactive Ingredients: Gelatin, titanium dioxide, and other ingredients to create the capsule.

These ingredients may vary between manufacturers, so always check the packaging or reach out to us if you need further assistance.

Tamiflu is generally well tolerated but may cause:

Nausea or vomiting
Stomach pain or diarrhoea
Headache
Tiredness

Less common but more serious side effects include:

Skin rash, swelling, or allergic reactions
Mood changes, agitation, or confusion (rare, usually in younger patients)
Seek urgent medical advice if you develop signs of an allergic reaction or severe side effects.

How do I take Tamiflu?
Tamiflu must be used precisely as instructed by your physician. It is in capsule or liquid suspension form. If you are using the capsules, take them whole with water. If you are administering the liquid suspension, measure carefully using the supplied dosing spoon or syringe. Tamiflu may be taken with or without food. If it causes stomach upset, it is advisable to take it with food to minimise this side effect.
When you take Tamiflu for flu treatment, it is usually administered twice daily for 5 days. For flu prevention, it is usually taken once daily for a maximum of 10 days after being exposed to the flu virus. Always use the prescription label instructions, and do not take more or less than what has been prescribed. If you are confused about the dosage or find it hard to swallow the medication, speak with your healthcare provider for advice.
Can Tamiflu be administered to children?
Yes, Tamiflu may be administered to children 2 weeks old and above. Dosage for children depends on weight and age, so it is essential to strictly adhere to the instructions given. In younger children or babies who cannot swallow capsules, the oral suspension form of Tamiflu is usually administered.
For the prevention of flu, Tamiflu may also be prescribed to children exposed to another person who has flu. That being said, one must mention here that it is best given only by a medical practitioner's guidance and then followed strictly for the recommended dose in terms of the age as well as the weight of the child.
Is Tamiflu available without a prescription?
No, Tamiflu is a prescription Medicine. What that means is that you cannot purchase it over the counter or without a valid prescription from an authorised healthcare practitioner. Tamiflu can only be used under the supervision of a medical professional since the Medicine might not be appropriate for all individuals. Your physician will assess whether Tamiflu is appropriate for you according to your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors.
If you think that you have the flu or if you have come in contact with a person with the flu, consult your GP. Your GP will prescribe Tamiflu if needed and let you know what dose to take and how long you need to be on the medication.
What if I miss a dose?
Take Tamiflu immediately when you realise you missed taking your dose. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for the missed dose, as this could increase the risk of side effects. Missing a dose of Tamiflu may reduce its effectiveness, so it is important to try to take the medication at the same time every day.
If you are not sure what to do after a missed dose or have questions, consult your healthcare provider for instructions.
Can Tamiflu cure the flu?
No, Tamiflu cannot cure the flu. It is an antiviral Medicine that reduces the severity of flu symptoms and shortens the illness. Tamiflu works by blocking the influenza virus's ability to reproduce and infect other cells in the body so that your immune system can better fight off the infection. It works best when taken in the first 48 hours of when the symptoms started. Although it may make symptoms less severe and shorten the duration of the flu, it won't cure the flu completely.
How long should I take Tamiflu?
Tamiflu is generally prescribed for 5 days for the treatment of flu. It is more effective if initiated as soon as symptoms occur. For prevention, Tamiflu is generally prescribed for 10 days after having been exposed to the flu virus, for example, when a family member or close contact has become infected with the flu. Always take your GP's prescription and advice on the duration to use Tamiflu. Never stop taking the medicine early, even if you start feeling better, as this could prevent the infection from being fully cured.
What are the possible side effects of Tamiflu?
As with all medicines, Tamiflu has the potential to cause side effects. Some of the common side effects are:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
More often than not, side effects are harmless and disappear as your body gets used to the Medicine. But sometimes, side effects can be severe, such as allergic reactions (hives, swelling, shortness of breath) or abnormal changes in behaviour in children (restlessness, confusion, hallucinations). If you or someone you know has a serious reaction or if side effects linger, call your healthcare provider right away.
Will Tamiflu prevent the flu?
Yes, Tamiflu may prevent the flu if taken following exposure to the virus. It can be particularly useful for people who are highly susceptible to complications from the flu, like people with weakened immune systems, older adults, or young children. Tamiflu prevents the spread of the virus within the body, lessening the chances of getting the flu after exposure.
But Tamiflu works best when taken shortly after exposure, ideally within 48 hours. It is not intended as a substitute for flu vaccine and should never be used as the first choice in flu prevention.
Is Tamiflu safe during pregnancy?
Tamiflu is only to be used during pregnancy under the order of a healthcare provider. If you are pregnant and have the flu, your physician may prescribe Tamiflu to alleviate the symptoms of the disease and avoid complications, including pneumonia, that may develop from the flu. The benefits of taking Tamiflu while pregnant generally outweigh the risks, but you should consult with your healthcare provider about your concerns. Your physician will review your individual situation to decide whether or not Tamiflu is best for you.
How long should I take Tamiflu?
Tamiflu is generally prescribed for 5 days for the treatment of flu. It is more effective if initiated as soon as symptoms occur. For prevention, Tamiflu is generally prescribed for 10 days after having been exposed to the flu virus, for example, when a family member or close contact has become infected with the flu. Always take your GP's prescription and advice on the duration to use Tamiflu. Never stop taking the medicine early, even if you start feeling better, as this could prevent the infection from being fully cured.