Tamiflu, the brand name for oseltamivir, is an antiviral medication used in the treatment of uncomplicated illness due to the influenza infection. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Tamiflu for use in adults and children 1 year of age and older who have had symptoms of the flu for no more than 48 hours. It is also used to prevent infection with the influenza virus. Symptoms of the influenza infection include fever, cough, headache, fatigue, sore throat and muscular weakness. Tamiflu has several precautions that you should discuss with your physician so you may know when to seek medical attention and avoid a complication.
Renal Impairment
Tamiflu is eliminated from the body through the kidneys. According to the "Drug Information Handbook," about 90 percent of the drug is eliminated in the urine. Individuals who have renal impairment will need a dosage adjustment if creatinine clearance, which measures kidney function, is between 10 and 30mL/min. Your physician will determine your renal function values and adjust the dose if necessary.
Psychiatric Events
In November 2007, the FDA issued a warning about Tamiflu and the occurrence of psychiatric events citing post-marketing reports of hallucinations and abnormal behavior leading to injury and suicide attempts in individuals taking Tamiflu, particularly in children. All individuals should be monitored for signs and symptoms of any unusual behavior. If you or your child experiences these effects, seek medical attention immediately.
Hypersensitivity Reactions
Severe skin reactions have been associated with the use of Tamiflu. These reactions include rash, hives and red patchy lesions. Chest pain or tightness, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face or tongue are severe allergic reactions and may be life-threatening. If you experience any of these severe reactions, contact a health care professional immediately.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook 15th Edition"; Charles F. Lacy, RPh, PharmD, FCSHP, Lora L. Armstrong, RPh, PharmD, BCPS. et al; 2007
- Tamiflu: Side Effects & Safety of Tamiflu
