Tamiflu – A Cure and a Preventive Medication

Since the outbreak of the swine flu, everyone wants to know how he or she can prevent themselves from contracting the said virus. Since Tamiflu has been known as the drug that can end this flu, people want to know if they can take it as a preventive measure.

To have a better informed decision, here is some basic information about Tamiflu and its uses.

Tamiflu is a drug for combating influenza, namely influenza A, B, and C. Influenza is caused by a virus. Influenza A is the most dangerous of the three, which affects humans terribly. This causes epidemics all over the world, including the latest one, A (H1N1) virus or swine flu.

Influenza can be prevented in many ways, like getting a flu shot. This has been the most common preventative measure and it has been around for a long time. Another option is to acquire Tamiflu, an influenza medicine. This medicine comes in capsule and suspension.

Tamiflu should be taken within forty-eight hours after the patient has shown symptoms of influenza. It is taken twice a day for five days. The treatment should not be stopped unless advised by the doctor. If you are taking it as a preventive measure, take Tamiflu once a day.

Make sure that you have a fixed schedule when to take the medicine during the day. It is advised to take the medicine on a full stomach, as the medicine may cause an upset stomach. If you are exposed to a virus-infected area, take the medicine as long as you are exposed to the virus. This makes sure that you are protected from the said virus.

If the infected person has kidney problems, the dosage can be reduced to once a day. As a preventive measure, one can take it every other day. Children under twelve years can take Tamiflu suspension.

Tamiflu is proven to be a cure and a preventive measure for influenza. It is still recommended to consult your physician for information on its side effects.