Oseltamivir🔊

What is Oseltamivir for?

Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) 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.

What are the Side effects of Oseltamivir?

Common side effects of Oseltamivir include dizziness, gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea and vomiting.

Where to buy Oseltamivir 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.