Swine flu, also known as the H1N1 flu, is a contagious viral infection that first made its mark in the spring of 2009, according to the Mayo Clinic. This flu virus enters the body via the eyes, nose or mouth. Its specific symptoms include a fever, sore throat, cough, diarrhea, vomiting and chills. Certain medications can be used to treat human swine flu.
Oseltamivir
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is an antiviral medication that specifically blocks certain influenza viruses, including influenza A and B (types of strains), according to Drugs.com. Oseltamivir may be used to treat and prevent influenza. Its side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, nosebleeds and dizziness. It can also cause trouble sleeping and trouble breathing, and a cough. In some cases, oseltamivir may cause such psychiatric problems as hallucinations, confusion, strange behaviors and even self-mutilation, says Drugs.com.
Oseltamivir is indicated when the flu has existed for fewer than two days. Dosage adjustments of oseltamivir may be necessary if you have kidney, lung, heart or brain disease, says Drugs.com. Oseltamivir is a capsule that should be taken with or without food. Typically, it is taken every 12 hours for five days or as your doctor prescribes.
Zanamivir
Zanamivir (Relenza) is another medication used to treat the swine flu. According to DailyMed, it is indicated for use in adults and children seven years of age or older. Zanamivir's side effects include a headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and a cough. Sinus, ear or throat infections and dizziness are zanivir's other side effects. DailyMed warns that zanavir should not be used when suffering from such airway diseases as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Bronchospasm, a medical problem in which the airways suddenly close, can occur in such cases when taking zanamivir.
Take 10 mg of zanamivir two times a day for five days or as your doctor indicates, DailyMed says.
Over-the-Counter Medications
The Mayo Clinic says that over-the-counter medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce the fever and aches of the swine flu. MedlinePlus says that acetaminophen is an antipyretic and analgesic medication used to reduce fever and decrease pain, respectively. Acetaminophen is not known for side effects. However, manifestations of an allergic reaction to acetaminophen include a rash, trouble breathing, hives, trouble swallowing and swelling of your face, lower legs, lips or feet. This drug is available as a tablet, suppository, capsule or liquid and should be taken as the package insert says.
Drugs.com says that ibuprofen belongs to the group of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It also reduces fever and pain. Ibuprofen can cause dizziness, stomach problems, a headache, heartburn, diarrhea and bloating. Ibuprofen can also increase your risk for bleeding. Ibuprofen is a tablet taken as the package instructions indicate.
