Oseltamivir

What it is used for

Oseltamivir phosphate for oral suspension is an influenza neuraminidase inhibitor (NAI) indicated for: Treatment of acute, uncomplicated influenza A and B in patients 2 weeks of age and older who have been symptomatic for no more than 48 hours. Prophylaxis of influenza A and B in patients 1 year and older. Limitations of Use: Not a substitute for annual influenza vaccination.

Consider available information on influenza drug susceptibility patterns and treatment effects when deciding whether to use. Not recommended for patients with end-stage renal disease not undergoing dialysis. Treatment of Influenza Oseltamivir phosphate for oral suspension is indicated for the treatment of acute, uncomplicated illness due to influenza A and B infection in patients 2 weeks of age and older who have been symptomatic for no more than 48 hours.

Prophylaxis of Influenza Oseltamivir phosphate for oral suspension is indicated for the prophylaxis of influenza A and B in patients 1 year and older. Limitations of Use Oseltamivir phosphate for oral suspension is not a substitute for early influenza vaccination on an annual basis as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.

Influenza viruses change over time. Emergence of resistance substitutions could decrease drug effectiveness. Other factors (for example, changes in viral virulence) might also diminish clinical benefit of antiviral drugs. Prescribers should consider available information on influenza drug susceptibility patterns and treatment effects when deciding whether to use oseltamivir phosphate for oral suspension.

Oseltamivir phosphate for oral suspension is not recommended for patients with end-stage renal disease not undergoing dialysis.

Side effects, and when to stop

The following serious adverse reactions are discussed below and elsewhere in the labeling:

• Serious skin and hypersensitivity reactions.
• Neuropsychiatric events.

Who should not take it

Oseltamivir phosphate capsules are contraindicated in patients with known serious hypersensitivity to oseltamivir or any component of the product. Severe allergic reactions have included anaphylaxis and serious skin reactions including toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, and erythema multiforme.