Although there are two antiviral drugs available for the treatment of flu, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved just one--oseltamivir--for use in toddlers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) categorize toddlers---particularly those younger than two---as high risk for complications of flu. Parents and caregivers of children in this age group should contact their health care provider for instructions as soon as flu symptoms appear.
Treatment
Oseltamivir is FDA-approved for the treatment of flu in children of all ages, including infants and toddlers. If it is given within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, oseltamivir can decrease the duration of symptoms by one or two days.
Prevention
In some cases, a physician may prescribe oseltamivir for a toddler who has been exposed to the flu virus or when the child lives in a community with a large number of cases. Given prior to the onset of symptoms, oseltamivir can prevent the child from ever becoming sick.
Dosing
Dosing in toddlers is based on weight. According to MedlinePlus, the dose is administered twice a day for 5 days when used for the treatment of flu and once a day for at least 10 days or up to 6 weeks when used for the prevention of flu.
Dispensing
Oseltamivir is available by prescription only. It may be dispensed as a capsule or a liquid for toddlers who have difficulty with the capsule.
Side Effects
The most common side effect of oseltamivir is stomach upset, which can be reduced by taking the medication with food. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that children experience side effects of oseltamivir more frequently than adults.
