Oseltamivir is a drug used to treat type A influenza virus infections (for example, bird flu) or B. Symptoms such as coughing, nasal congestion, sore throat, chills, and weakness, can be treated in less time or reduced by 1-2 days by taking this drug.
Oseltamivir is also consumed to prevent flu in patients who have recently been exposed to the influenza virus, from sufferers or an environment that is currently infected with this virus.
Oseltamivir belongs to an antiviral drug that works by stopping viral activity from growing. Until now, research has shown that this drug is not effective in treating Corona virus infection or COVID-19.
Like other antiviral drugs, oseltamivir is not effective in preventing infections caused by bacteria.
Trademarks for oseltamivir: Oseltamivir, Tamiflu
What is Oseltamivir
| class | Anti virus |
| Category | Prescription drug |
| Benefit | Relieves flu symptoms |
| Consumed by | Children to adults |
| Oseltamivir for pregnant and lactating women |
Category C: animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there have been no controlled studies in pregnant women.
Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Oseltamivir is known to be slightly absorbed into breast milk. For nursing mothers it is recommended to consult a doctor before using this drug. |
| Form | Capsule |
Precautions Before Taking Oseltamivir
Oseltamivir should only be used with a doctor's prescription. Before using this drug, pay attention to the following points:
- Do not take oseltamivir if you are allergic to this drug.
- Oseltamivir is not a therapy to replace the flu vaccine . Influenza vaccination is highly prioritized as a prevention against the flu.
- Please be careful before taking oseltamivir if you have heart disease, liver disease , impaired kidney function, respiratory tract disorders, chronic lung disease, conditions that cause swelling or abnormalities in the brain, immune system disorders, sugar metabolism disorders (genetic disorders) ), Steven-Johnson syndrome , or have had the nasal flu vaccine less than two weeks ago.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications, including herbal remedies or supplements.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.
- If an allergic reaction or overdose occurs after taking this drug, see a doctor immediately.
Dosage and Rules for Use Oseltamivir
The dose of oseltamivir is differentiated based on the patient's condition and age. Here are the details:
Purpose: Prevent influenza virus types A and B
- Adult: 75 mg once daily for at least 10 days. Start using it within 2 days of first exposure to an environment infected with the flu virus. Medication can be given for up to 6 weeks.
- Infants aged 0–1 month: 2 mg/kgBB
- Infants aged 1–3 months: 2.5 mg/kg
- Infants aged 3–12 months: 3 mg/kgBB
- Infants >1 year weighing <15 kg: 30 mg
- Infants >1 year weighing 15–23 kg: 45 mg
- Infants >1 year weighing 23–40 kg: 60 mg
- Infants >1 year weighing >60 kg: 75 mg
Purpose: Treat influenza A and B
- Adult: 75 mg twice daily for 5 days. The drug is consumed within 2 days of the onset of the initial symptoms.
- Infants aged 0–1 month: 2 mg/kgBB
- Infants aged 1–3 months: 2.5 mg/kg
- Infants aged 3–12 months: 3 mg/kgBB
- Infants > 1 year weighing <15kg: 30 mg
- Toddlers > 1 year weighing 15–23 kg: 45 mg
- Toddlers > 1 year weighing 23–40 kg: 60 mg
- Infants > 1 year weighing > 40 kg: 75 mg
How to Take Oseltamivir Properly
Read the instructions for use listed on the packaging and follow the doctor's advice before taking oseltamivir. Do not add or reduce the dosage of the drug without the permission or knowledge of the doctor.
To reduce the risk of stomach ulcers after taking the drug, oseltamivir can be taken with food. This drug will work most effectively if taken within two days of exposure to the influenza virus.
For patients who have difficulty swallowing the capsule whole, it is permissible to open the capsule in half. Mix the contents of the capsule with sweet foods such as cake, chocolate syrup, or palm sugar juice. Stir the mixture thoroughly before consuming.
Try to take oseltamivir at the same time every day for maximum treatment. For patients who forget to take oseltamivir, they are advised to do it as soon as they remember, if the gap with the next scheduled use is not too close. If it's close, ignore it and don't double the dose.
Oseltamivir Interactions with Other Drugs
Avoid taking oseltamivir with influenza vaccine. The use of both together has the potential to inhibit the work of the influenza vaccine. Give a break of at least two days after ending the consumption of oseltamivir, before the flu vaccine is given.
Consult your doctor if you are taking oseltamivir with the following medicines which may cause unwanted drug interactions:
- Amoxicillin , because it can reduce the effectiveness of both drugs
- Probenecid, because it can increase blood levels of oseltamivir
Oseltamivir Side Effects and Dangers
In addition to the benefits provided, each drug also causes side effects for people who consume or use it. A number of side effects that can occur after consuming oseltamivir are:
- Headache
- Feeling unwell
- Cough and stuffy nose (especially in children)
- Stomach ache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Hard to sleep