How Tamiflu® Works
Tamiflu® is taken orally as a pill and is most efficacious when you take it within the first 48 hours of feeling symptoms. It prevents the virus from reproducing and continuing to spread throughout your body. It will shorten the duration of your symptoms, too.
Don’t fret if you accidentally miss the window for taking a dose of Tamiflu®; just take the next one as soon as you can. However, if your next regularly scheduled dose is coming soon, just take the one. This is to prevent taking too many doses in too close of a time.
Tamiflu® is not meant to replace the flu shot. We encourage you to get your yearly flu vaccination
in addition to taking Tamiflu®.
Who Should Take Tamiflu®
Tamiflu® is safe for kids 2 weeks to 12 years old and people 13 years and older. Patients 2 weeks-12 years should take two doses/day, based on their weight, for 5 days. Tamiflu® is available in liquid form for kids who can’t swallow pills. Those 13 and older should take 75mg of the medication two times/day for 5 days.
There are certain conditions to note with your doctor that may impact treatment. When you meet with your doctor, make sure they are aware if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Kidney disease
- Heart problems
- Pregnancy or trying for a baby
- Breastfeeding
- Oseltamivir allergy
- Trouble swallowing
Preventing the Flu
The flu is a viral infection, meaning it can be spread from person to person through the air or by touching a contaminated surface. To stop the spread of the virus, make sure you regularly wash your hands and wipe down surfaces that lots of people touch, like door handles, countertops, or toilet handles, with bleach or disinfectant. Try not to touch your mouth, nose, or eyes, either.
Another way to defend yourself from influenza is to get the flu shot. The vaccine decreases your chance of getting sick. But if you do manage to get sick, your symptoms will be much milder than if you had not gotten the shot.
If you’re sick, protect those around you and eliminate the spread of germs by putting a tissue or your elbow up to your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
When to Seek Medical Care
Although most symptoms are manageable at home, you should still contact your doctor if you think you have the flu. It’s best to get a medical professional’s insight into your condition and the best path for treatment.
For some individuals, flu symptoms may come on a lot stronger, increasing the risk for severe illness and complications. Factors to note are:
- Age: Those 65 years and older and 12 months and younger.
- Immunocompromised: Those with weakened immune systems from other, non-related
conditions like cancer or HIV/AIDS. - Obesity: Individuals who weigh more than their recommended weight.
- Chronic illness: Individuals with chronic illnesses such as asthma, heart disease, or blood
disease.
If you are in one of these high-risk categories, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately if you have the flu, as the symptoms may worsen your current condition.
If you are not at high risk, there are other signs to look for that will tell you whether or not you need medical attention. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, seek care immediately:
- Trouble breathing
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Seizures
There are severe signs to look for with children, too. If your child has blue or gray nail beds or lips or is dehydrated, bring them to the hospital immediately.