A physician may prescribe Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) in capsules or as an oral suspension to treat types A or B influenza infections for children above the age of 1 year. While the medication is only effective for those who have had flu symptoms less than two days, it may prevent children from coming down with the flu even if they don't show symptoms, and keep the flu from spreading in children newly diagnosed. It shouldn't be substituted for seasonal flu shots and doesn't treat the common cold or diseases other than flu. Tamiflu's effect with children has been studied and may cause a number of side effects.
Nausea, Vomiting
The most common side effects Tamiflu may bring about in children are nausea and vomiting. The Tamiflu website states that about 10 percent of children ages 1 to 12 reported side effects of nausea without vomiting and 9 percent with vomiting. Clinical study figures note another 2 percent of children for abdominal pain as a side effect.
Hallucinations, Behavior Problems
Children using Tamiflu may have hallucinations, unusual behaviors or even injure themselves. The Drugs.com website states children displayed behavioral abnormalities more often than adults after taking Tamiflu.The site indicated confusion and delirium were also noted as side effects in pediatric use.
Diarrhea
Children between the ages of 1 and 12 may develop diarrhea as a side effect of Tamiflu. The Tamiflu website states that about 7 percent of children who take Tamiflu may have diarrhea and that caution should be taken to prevent dehydration with pediatric treatment.
Asthma, Nosebleeds, Bronchitis
Tamiflu may cause maladies such as nosebleeds, bronchitis and asthma in children as side effects. The RxList.com website states that of those who were tested for side effects from Tamiflu, about 3 percent developed nosebleeds, and another 3 percent developed asthma symptoms. Another 2 percent had bronchitis after taking Tamiflu. Similar numbers of children developed pneumonia, sinusitis and ear disorders.
Possible Fetal Toxicity
Using Tamiflu could be toxic to a fetus if taken by either pregnant women or nursing mothers. The RxList.com website notes some toxicity in animal studies, but inadequate studies have been done regarding fetal toxicity in humans. Until more studies have been done, pregnant and nursing mothers are urged not to use Tamiflu unless their physicians think the benefit is worth the potential risk to fetuses and nursing infants.
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