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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

OSELTAMIVIR - ORAL

(oss-el-TAM-eh-veer)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Tamiflu

USES: Oseltamivir is used to treat symptoms caused by the flu virus (influenza). It helps make the symptoms (such as stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, fever/chills, aches, tiredness) less severe and shortens the recovery time by 1-2 days. This medication is also used to prevent the flu if you have been exposed to someone who already has the flu (such as a sick household member) or if there is a flu outbreak in the community.

This medication works by stopping the flu virus from growing. It is not a substitute for the flu vaccine. (See also Notes section.)

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking this medicine. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food. You may take it with food or milk to minimize stomach upset. Take this medication as soon as flu symptoms appear or as soon as possible after you have been exposed to the flu. Oseltamivir works best if you start taking it within 2 days of either of these events.

If you have the flu, take oseltamivir as directed by your doctor, usually twice a day for 5 days.

To prevent the flu, take oseltamivir as directed by your doctor, usually once a day for at least 10 days. Follow your doctor's instructions for how long to take this medicine.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, kidney function, and response to treatment. In children the dosage is also based on weight.

This medication works best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals at the same time(s) every day. Continue to take it for the full time prescribed. Stopping the medication too early may allow the virus to continue to grow, which may result in a relapse of the infection or failure to protect you from the flu.

Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens or if new symptoms appear.