Tamiflu(Oseltamivir) is used to treat some types of influenza (flu) in patients who have had symptoms of the flu for 2 days or less. Tamiflu is in a class of drugs called neuraminidase inhibitors. These drugs work by stopping the growth and spread of the flu virus in your body. Tamiflu helps shorten the time you have flu symptoms such as nasal congestion, sore throat, cough, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, fever, and chills.

Continue to take Tamiflu even if you start to feel better. Do not stop taking Tamiflu without talking to your doctor.

Special precautions

Before taking Tamiflu,

• Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Tamiflu or any other drugs.

• Tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins and herbal products.

• Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease.

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If yo come pregnant while taking Tamiflu, call you doctor immediately.

Side effects

Although side effects from Tamiflu are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• upset stomach

• vomiting

• difficulty sleeping

• bronchitis

• dizziness

Tamiflu will not stop you from giving the flu to others. You should maintain proper hygiene, wash your hands frequently, and avoid situations such as sharing cups and utensils that can spread the virus to others.

Tamiflu does not replace the flu vaccine. You should continue to receive a flu shot each year if your doctor recommends it.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Your prescription is probably not refillable. If you still have symptoms of the flu after you finish the Tamiflu, call your doctor.