USES:
This medication is used to treat illness (symptoms) caused
by the flu virus (influenza). Oseltamivir is also used to
prevent the flu (e.g., in household members exposed to a
flu sufferer).
HOW TO USE:
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor.
You may take this 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 (both within 48
hours). If you have the flu: Take oseltamivir twice a day
for 5 days; once in the morning and once in the evening.
Complete the entire treatment of 10 doses. To prevent the
flu: Take oseltamivir once a day for at least 7 days or
take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor. This medication
works best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept
at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at the same
time(s) each day. Take this medication until the full prescribed
amount is finished, even if symptoms improve. 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.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Nausea may occur. If this effect persists or worsens, notify
your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if you
have any of these unlikely but serious side effects: dizziness,
persistent cough. Tell your doctor immediately if you have
any of these very unlikely but serious side effects: persistent
weakness, fever, sore throat. If you notice other effects
not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies,
kidney problems. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy;
use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such
as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed
during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor. It is not known if this drug passes into breast
milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription
medication you may use. Do not start or stop any medicine
without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control
center or emergency room immediately.
NOTES:
Do not share this medication with others. Consult your doctor
about the risks and important benefits of receiving a yearly
flu shot (vaccination) to prevent infection.
MISSED DOSE:
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it
is near the time of the next dose (within two hours), skip
the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do
not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15
to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
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