About oseltamivir
Antiviral neuraminidase inhibitor
Used for
- Treats influenza A and B
- Prevents influenza after exposure
Usual adult dose
Treatment: 75 mg twice daily for 5 days. Prevention: 75 mg once daily, usually for 10 days after exposure.
Usual dose in children
Treatment: 2 mg/kg twice daily for 5 days (maximum 75 mg per dose), for children aged 1 year or older. Prevention dosing varies by age and weight.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Stomach pain
Important warnings
- Start treatment promptly for best effect.
- Dose adjustment may be needed with kidney impairment.
- Rarely, serious allergic or skin reactions occur.
- Confusion or unusual behavior has been reported, especially in children.
Pregnancy
May be used during pregnancy when treatment or prevention is indicated; influenza itself can be serious. Seek clinician guidance.
Breastfeeding
Generally considered compatible; limited information is available. Consult a healthcare professional about individual circumstances.
Interactions
- Live attenuated nasal influenza vaccine: avoid close timing; ask about spacing.
- Probenecid can increase oseltamivir exposure.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.