According to research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC), influenza infects 9-40 million people yearly. Also referred to as the flu, influenza, which is a highly contagious disease, comes with a variety of symptoms, including runny nose, fatigue, cough, muscle aches, chills, and fever. The best way to protect oneself against influenza is by taking a flu vaccine. However, if this illness strikes you or your loved one, your doctor will likely recommend Tamiflu. You can also get a Tamiflu online prescription here. Tamiflu is a trade name for oseltamivir. This drug is used to reduce the severity of flu symptoms and lessen the course of illness. Continue scrolling to learn more about Tamiflu.

Tamiflu: What is It?

Tamiflu is an antiviral drug that reduces the increase of the influenza virus. One has to take Tamiflu within two days after the onset of the flu symptoms to remain effective. The flu viruses must multiply in human cells to allow them to survive. Hence, it is crucial to tackle them before they multiply. This medication works by hindering the multiplication and replication of this virus, thus reducing the illness’s length by 24 hours.

How Does This Medication Work?

Using Tamiflu during the first 48 hours of the flu can lead to milder illness. As a result, this decreases the number of deaths and hospitalizations related to influenza. But, it is crucial to note that taking Tamiflu does not prevent one from having influenza. Instead, it helps treat the symptoms.

Tamiflu and antibiotics are not similar to each other. Antibiotics generally treat bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and strep throat. On the other hand, Tamiflu helps decrease the severity and duration of the flu, but it does not necessarily cure it.

Who Can Take Tamiflu?

Tamiflu and its generic versions are approved for the treatment of influenza in kids and infants as young as two weeks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises patients with severe influenza to take Tamiflu medication. Also, they recommend that patients at higher risk of getting complications from influenza can take Tamiflu. The person who can take Tamiflu include the following.

  • Persons taking medication that can suppress their immune system
  • Persons having chronic illnesses like lung disease, sickle cell anemia, asthma, diabetes and heart disease
  • Expectant mothers and those who have recently given birth
  • People aged 65 years and above
  • Kids aged below two years who have a higher risk of life-threatening complications such as dehydration and pneumonia

Is Tamiflu Safe for Kids?

Like in any other medication, your physician must weigh the benefits versus risks of a drug. Usually, if your child has mild influenza, the risk of stomach upset will likely outweigh the advantages of the medication. Therefore, in such a case, letting the influenza run its course without any antiviral medicine is advisable. But, if your child has severe flu symptoms or suffers chronic medical conditions, it is best to give them Tamiflu as the treatment option.