TAMIFLU Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) is an anti viral flu medication that is prescribed to both prevent and to treat the symptoms of the influenza virus. Tamiflu has shown surprising success during the clinical trials where adults and children were administered Tamiflu while others were not. Adults showed a 30% decrease in the duration of the flu when given Tamiflu, and children showed a 26% decrease. Tamiflu can be taken to prevent the flu as well, if taken before contracting the virus.

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:

• For flu treatment: When taken within two days of experiencing symptoms, TAMIFLU works by helping to stop the flu virus from spreading inside the body
• For flu prevention: When you have been exposed to someone with the flu, taking TAMIFLU can help keep the virus from making you sick

TAMIFLU is not a substitute for the flu shot; vaccination is the first line of defense for flu protection.

HOW TO USE: Take tamiflu exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. TAMIFLU is a prescription medication for flu prevention and treatment in adults and children aged 1 year and older.

• TAMIFLU is available in pill form
• TAMIFLU is also available in a fruit–flavored liquid form with a dosing dispenser for children 1 year and older and for adults who have difficulty swallowing the capsule.
• TAMIFLU can be taken with or without food. As with many medicines, if you take TAMIFLU with a light snack, milk, or a meal, the potential for an upset stomach may be reduced.

SIDE EFFECTS: Stop taking Tamiflu and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction. Rare but serious skin reactions and allergic reactions have been reported. Stop taking TAMIFLU and call your doctor if you experience any of these reactions, as they could be very serious. People with the flu, particularly children and adolescents, may be at an increased risk of self injury and confusion shortly after taking TAMIFLU and should be closely monitored for signs of unusual behavior. A healthcare professional should be contacted immediately if the patient taking TAMIFLU shows any signs of unusual behavior.

The most common side effects of TAMIFLU are mild to moderate nausea and vomiting. TAMIFLU is generally well tolerated.

PRECAUTIONS:

• You should not take TAMIFLU if you are allergic to oseltamivir phosphate or any other ingredients of TAMIFLU.
• TAMIFLU is normally not recommended for use during pregnancy or nursing, as the effects on the unborn child or nursing infant are unknown. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding while taking TAMIFLU, talk to your doctor before taking TAMIFLU.
• If you have any type of kidney disease, talk to your doctor before starting TAMIFLU therapy.
• The use of TAMIFLU along with an intranasal flu vaccine like FluMist^®* has not been evaluated. However, due to the possibility for interference between these products, an intranasal flu vaccine should not be given within 2 weeks before or 48 hours after taking TAMIFLU, unless it is deemed appropriate by your doctor. The type of flu vaccine administered as a shot through the skin can be given at any time relative to use of TAMIFLU.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.

Disclaimer
This information is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice. Be sure to contact your physician, pharmacist or other health care provider for more information about this medication.