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What is Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) for?
Oseltamivir is an antiviral medicine used to treat and prevent Influenza A and Influenza B (also known as flu).
How to use it?
Oseltamivir can be taken by mouth as capsules or suspension. The dosages for different age groups are listed below:
For prevention of flu
Adult / Child 13-17 years / Child 1-12 years whose body weight is 40 kg or above
75 mg once daily for 10 days after exposure. During an epidemic (flu season), it can be taken for up to 6 weeks.
Child 1-11 months
3 mg/kg once daily for 19 days after exposure.
Child 1-12 years whose body weight is 10-15 kg
30 mg once daily for 10 days after exposure. During an epidemic (flu season), it can be taken for up to 6 weeks.
Child 1-12 years whose body weight is 15-23 kg
45 mg once daily for 10 days after exposure. During an epidemic (flu season), it can be taken for up to 6 weeks.
Child 1-12 years whose body weight is 23-40 kg
60 mg once daily for 10 days after exposure. During an epidemic (flu season), it can be taken for up to 6 weeks.
For treatment of flu
Adult / Child 13-17 years / Child 1-12 years whose body weight is 40 kg or above
75 mg twice daily for 5 days (or 10 days if immunocompromised).
Child 1-11 months
3 mg/kg twice daily for 5 days.
Child 1-12 years whose body weight is 10-15 kg
30 mg twice daily for 5 days.
Child 1-12 years whose body weight is 15-23 kg
45 mg twice daily for 5 days.
Child 1-12 years whose body weight is 23-40 kg
60 mg twice daily for 5 days.
Who should not take Oseltamivir ?
People who are allergic to Oseltamivir or other components of the formulation.
Pharmacist Tips:
- Note that Oseltamivir is not a substitute for the annual flu vaccine.
- It is best to start Oseltamivir for treatment within 48 hours after symptoms occur.
- Getting your influenza vaccine, and maintaining good personal and environmental hygiene is important in preventing catching the flu.
Common dosing schedule:
You can take Oseltamivir with food to reduce stomach upset.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Oseltamivir may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
Where to buy Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) in Hong Kong?
In Hong Kong, Oseltamivir is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Oseltamivir in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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