What it means
A neuraminidase inhibitor: it stops influenza A and B viruses from leaving infected cells, so the infection spreads less in the body. It works best when started within 48 hours of the first symptoms and can shorten the illness by about a day. It is also given to prevent flu after close contact. It does not replace the yearly flu vaccine.
For the nurse
Teach the client to start it early and finish the course. Taking it with food lessens nausea and vomiting. Rarely, confusion or unusual behavior has been reported, mostly in children: tell families to report it.
In a chart
"Positive rapid influenza A; oseltamivir 75 mg PO twice daily for 5 days started."
At a glance
| Drug class | antiviral (neuraminidase inhibitor) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Tamiflu |
| Spanish | oseltamivir |