Tamiflu capsules

Tamiflu (oseltamivir) is an antiviral medication used to treat and prevent influenza (the flu). It contains the active ingredient oseltamivir.

When taken within the first 48 hours of the onset of the illness, it can effectively reduce the duration and severity of flu symptoms. When taken as a preventative measure, it can effectively protect you from the flu for up to 10 days.

It was first approved by the EMA in June 2002, allowing it to be used in the European Union to treat and prevent the flu.

Tamiflu is especially recommended for those at high risk, such as the elderly or people with weakened immune systems. This is because these patients are more vulnerable to severe complications resulting from the flu.

At euroClinix, our doctors prescribe Tamiflu for the treatment and prevention of influenza.

Tamiflu works by blocking a specific enzyme which the virus needs to multiply and spread. This enzyme, neuraminidase, allows the virus to leave infected cells and infect healthy ones.

When used to treat the flu, it resolves symptoms quicker and keeps your condition from becoming serious. When used for prevention, it stops the virus from multiplying, allowing your body to kill it before it can spread.

Tamiflu is a highly effective antiviral treatment with several health benefits.

• Effective influenza treatment - clinical trials have shown it to be highly effective when taken in the first 48 hours of illness.
• Effectively prevents influenza - it can also be used to prevent the flu when taken consistently for 10 days.
• Prevents health complications from the flu - faster resolution of symptoms means you are less likely to develop related health complications.
• Effective in high-risk groups - those at higher risk of health complications are less likely to develop them when taking this medication.
• Reduces the severity of symptoms and shortens duration of illness - prevents the virus from spreading and causing symptoms to improve

NOTE: Tamiflu is not a flu vaccine (flu jab). If you have been advised to get vaccinated against the flu, do so at your nearest vaccination centre.

Clinical trials have found Tamiflu to be effective in both treatment and prevention of the flu. Here are the key findings:

• Symptom resolution - one review of 9 clinical trials found that Tamiflu resolved flu symptoms 21% faster on average than a placebo. The results of this review can be seen in the graph below.
• Flu prevention - in another trial, 98.6% of patients taking Tamiflu were protected from the flu after being exposed to it, whereas only 87.4% of the placebo group were. This translates to 89% protective efficacy.

Who can take Tamiflu?

To get a prescription for Tamiflu from euroClinix, you must be over the age of 18 and suffer from the flu.

Who cannot take Tamiflu?

There are some situations where Tamiflu may not be suitable for you. Talk to one of our doctors if you have:

• A hypersensitivity to oseltamivir or any other ingredient in Tamiflu
• Kidney problems
• A weakened immune system
• A chronic heart disease or respiratory disease
• Severe medical conditions which may require immediate hospitalisation

Our doctor will evaluate whether Tamiflu is suitable for you and may adjust your medications if needed.

To use Tamiflu correctly, follow the dosage and treatment course our medical team prescribes. This ensures the drug's effectiveness and helps avoid side effects.

Dosage

This medication is only available in a 75 mg dose. However, the dosage schedule will differ depending on whether you are treating the flu or preventing it. The normal Tamiflu dosage schedule is as follows.

It’s important to finish the entire course of treatment, even if you feel better. Stopping treatment early risks the virus resurfacing.

When do I take it?

Tamiflu is best taken within 48 hours of flu symptoms appearing. This gives your body the best chance at fighting the virus.

The time of day you take Tamiflu does not impact how effective it is, so take it as soon as possible after noticing symptoms.

What if I miss a dose?

Follow these instructions if you miss a dose of Tamiflu:

• If you remember the missed dose within a few hours of the scheduled time, take it as soon as possible
• If it is almost time for your next dose (whole day missed), skip the missed dose and take your next capsule at the usual time
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

Tamiflu typically starts to work quickly after starting treatment, but the time it takes to feel significant relief from symptoms varies. Here is a general overview of what you can expect:

Alongside taking your medication as prescribed, there are some lifestyle changes you can make to maximise the effectiveness of treatment.

1. Get enough rest

Get enough quality sleep at night and don’t overexert yourself to help your body fight the infection efficiently.

2. Maintain a healthy diet

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy proteins to boost your immune system and strengthen your body.

3. Reduce stress

High stress levels can weaken your immune system. Limit potential stressors and practice stress-relief activities like reading or deep breathing exercises.

4. Limit contact with others

Minimise contact with others to avoid spreading the virus as the flu is highly contagious.

Prioritise a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to boost your immune system during flu treatment. These foods can enhance your body’s defences and allow it to better fight the infection.

Silvia Fonda Nutritionist

Tamiflu’s side effects vary in intensity and frequency. Here are the most common ones to look out for.

Some side effects of Tamiflu may require medical help, but some can be managed at home. Here are some of the most common Tamiflu side effects and some ways to manage them:

• Nausea/vomiting: take your capsules with food to reduce stomach upset and help absorption.
• Headache: stay hydrated, rest, and use over-the-counter painkillers if needed.
• Dizziness: avoid sudden movements and rest with your eyes closed. It should pass over time.
• Cold sores: manage stress with rest and relaxation, as flu-related stress can trigger cold sores. You can apply viral infection treatment when a cold sore appears.
• Cough: stay hydrated and use a humidifier to add moisture to the air. This can reduce throat dryness and ease your cough.

While rare, serious side effects can occur when taking Tamiflu. If you notice severe skin reactions or mental and behavioural changes, seek immediate medical help, as these could signify something more serious.

Dr. Caroline Fontana Lead Prescribing Doctor

For more detailed information, please refer to the patient information leaflet sent with your order.

Some medicines are not safe to take with Tamiflu. Tell your doctor about any other medications you take, including the following:

• Probenecid (gout medication): affects the kidney and increases the levels of Tamiflu in the body.
• Live flu vaccine (nasal spray): Tamiflu can interfere with the effectiveness of this vaccine.
• Methotrexate (immunosuppressant): using this medication with Tamiflu may increase levels of either drug, especially if kidney function is impaired. This can increase the risk of side effects.
• Chlorpropamide (blood pressure medication): can raise the risk of low blood sugar.

Note: This list does not cover all possible interactions. For a comprehensive list, please refer to the Tamiflu interactions checker on Drugs.com.

Follow these instructions to store this medicine safely:

• Do not store above 25°C
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children
• Do not use this medicine after the expiry date stated on the carton

Disposal

Do not throw away medicines down the toilet, sink, or via household waste.

Instead, take any unused capsules to your local pharmacy for proper disposal. These measures help to protect the environment.

No, Tamiflu can only be obtained with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

Prescriptions are necessary because they:

• Ensure appropriate use for your specific condition.
• Prevent potential misuse and associated health risks.
• Allow for monitoring of side effects and interactions with other medications.

Ordering Tamiflu with euroClinix is simple and secure. Follow these steps:

• Start a confidential online questionnaire from the top of this page. It will take about 5-10 minutes to complete.
• A UK-registered doctor will review your consultation.
• If approved, the doctor will issue an electronic prescription.
• A licensed UK pharmacy will send your medication in discreet packaging. The pharmacy will also share tracking information. You get free next-day delivery.

euroClinix offers ongoing support for any questions. Privacy and security are guaranteed through compliance with the relevant regulatory standards and the use of encrypted transactions.

euroClinix is a trusted online clinic that offers services in several European countries. All consultations and prescriptions are handled by our UK-registered doctors.

The process is convenient with online consultations and discreet home delivery. Our friendly customer service team is always happy to assist with any questions related to our services.

The euroClinix platform is user-friendly for managing prescriptions and reorders securely.

At euroClinix, Tamiflu costs -.

The price of Tamiflu at euroClinix includes everything you need:

• Free online consultation with our experienced doctors
• Free prescription, if approved
• Free delivery straight to your door

Our pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees. Order today and benefit from our complete, all-inclusive service.