Tamiflu, or oseltamivir phosphate, is an antiviral drug used to hinder the spread of influenza virus from cell to cell by chemically cutting ties between the virus and its host cell. It is available in 30mg, 45mg and 75mg capsules and as a powder which is mixed with water for oral consumption.
Main Ingredients
The active ingredient in Tamiflu is Oseltamivir phosphate, a white crystalline solid which is used as a neuraminidase inhibitor, which inhibits the flu virus' ability to bind with host cells. Other ingredients include pre-gelatinized starch and talc for gelling and stability, providone K30 as a flow assistant, croscarmellose sodium as a disintegrant to aid the body in absorption of the medicine and sodium stearyl fumarate as a lubricant.
Ingredients in Tamiflu Capsule Shells
All Tamiflu capsule shells contain gelatin. Other ingredients vary according to the dosage contained within the shell. The 30mg capsule shells are made from yellow iron oxide, red iron oxide and titanium oxide; the 45 mg capsule shells contain titanium dioxide and black iron oxide. Titanium dioxide, yellow iron oxide, red iron oxide and black iron oxide are used to make 75mg capsule shells. The ink on all capsule shells is made from FD&C Blue No. 2.
Ingredients in Tamiflu Powder
Tamiflu powder contains sorbitol, tutti-frutti flavoring and saccharin sodium as sweeteners. Sorbitol and monosodium citrate are used to stabilize and lubricate the liquid solution. The powder also contains sodium benzoate as a preservative.
Unusual or Potentially Harmful Ingredients
The proylene glycol in Tamiflu is also used as the primary ingredient in some paints. Saccharin sodium has been linked to cancer in some studies, and sodium benzoate is known to become carcinogenic when combined with vitamin C. Sorbitol may cause intestinal discomfort. Talc is considered a carcinogen, and has been linked to lung cancer, skin cancer and ovarian cancer.
