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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