How to use

Take Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate) when you experience any flu symptoms or if you have been exposed to the flu. It is important to take this medication as soon as possible after either of these things happen, preferably within 2 days.

If you have the flu, you should take Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate) orally, twice a day for 5 days. To prevent the flu, you should take this medication once per day for at least 10 days. It is recommended to take these pills with a little food or milk to minimize stomach upsets. Follow the directions of your doctor exactly, even if they differ from the normally recommended dosage.

Make sure you take Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate) at regular intervals to ensure there is a constant level of medication in your blood stream. Do not stop taking this medication until you have finished your prescribed course. If you stop early, it may result in a relapse of the virus or you may not be adequately protected against the flu.

Overdose
If you suspect you have taken too much Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate), you should contact your local poison control center or the energency medical services immediately.

Notes
Do not share this medication with others, since they may have a problem that is not effectively treated by Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate).

Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate) should not be considered a substitute for your yearly flu vaccination.

Missed dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is within 2 hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double up on Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate) to make up for a missed dose.

Storage
Store Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate) at room temperature (77 degrees F or 25 degrees C) and away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not store in the bathroom. KEEP THIS AND ALL OTHER MEDICATION OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. 

Important note
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed that the taking of this medication is safe, appropriate or effective for you.

Precautions

Before taking Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate), you should talk to your doctor about your medical history. Especially mention:

• Any allergies
• Kidney diseases

If you suffer or have suffered from any of the above, you may not be able to take this medication or you may need a dosage adjustment.

It is not recommended you drive or operate heavy machinery while taking Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate), as this medication may cause such side effects as dizziness and drowsiness. Only perform such activities if you are sure it is safe for you to do so.

Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate) is classed as Pregnancy Category C by the FDA, which means it could potentially be harmful to an unborn child. It is not recommended you take this medication while pregnant or if you are planning to become pregnant during treatment.

Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate) passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor before taking this medication if you are currently breastfeeding a baby.

Drug Interactions

Before taking Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate), inform your doctor if you are also taking or have taken any of the following:

• Clopidogrel
• A flu vaccination in the nose
• Other flu medication

This is only a partial list and other medication may interact with Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate). Inform your doctor of all prescription and non-prescription medication you use, including herbal pills, dietary supplements, vitamins and medicines prescribed by other doctors. Do not start or stop taking any medications without informing your doctor first.

You may experience the following common side effects of Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate):

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness

These side effects only occur temporarily as your body adjusts to the medication and usually go away after 1-2 days. Contact your doctor if any of these side effects persist or worsen.

In unlikely cases, Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate) could cause serious mental or mood changes. These are more likely in children. Inform your doctor immediately if you notice any signs of unusual behaviour, including:

• Confusion
• Agitation
• Self-injury

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following rare but very serious side effects:

• Chest pain

In very rare cases, you may develop an allergic reaction to Tamiflu (Oseltamivir Phosphate). Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Rash
• Itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue or throat)
• Severe dizziness
• Trouble breathing

This is only a partial list of potential side effects and others may occur. Notify your doctor straightaway if you experience any other side effects than the ones mentioned above, especially if they are bothersome.