Oseltamivir is used to prevent or treat infections caused by influenza viruses (Type A and B). It is an antiviral medication that works by preventing the release of influenza viruses from infected cells, thereby preventing new rounds of infection.
Oseltamivir is not a substitute for influenza vaccination.
For patients who cannot swallow the capsules:
As Oseltamivir is very bitter and the taste can be masked by mixing the contents of the capsule(s) with sweetened liquids as indicated below:
The following sweetened liquids are:
* Allow these drinks to cool to room temperature before medication is added.
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.
Inform your healthcare professional if:
Live influenza vaccine should be avoided within 2 weeks before or 48 hours after administration of Oseltamivir unless medically indicated.
Avoid using Oseltamivir together with Probenecid.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.
Neuropsychiatric reactions such as:
Symptoms of a drug allergy which includes one or more of the following:
Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.
Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.
Disclaimers
This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.
Last updated on August 2021
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