Osemvir Powder for Oral Suspension 60mg Powder

Oseltamivir is an antiviral medicine for flu (influenza). It stops the flu virus spreading inside the body.

• Treatment: it shortens flu symptoms such as fever, aches, sore throat and blocked nose. It works best if started within 2 days of symptoms starting.
• Prevention: it can help stop flu after close contact with someone who has it, or during an outbreak.

It does not treat bacterial infections and does not replace the yearly flu vaccine.

Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you.

• Shake the bottle well for about 5 seconds before each dose.
• Measure each dose with the oral syringe supplied, or the device from your pharmacist for babies. Never use a kitchen spoon.
• Give the dose straight into the mouth; do not mix it with other drinks. It can be taken with or without food.
• Finish the full course, even if you feel better.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember, unless the next dose is within 2 hours. Do not double up.

Common side effects include:

• feeling or being sick
• stomach pain or diarrhoea
• headache

Taking it with food may help with stomach upset.

Get medical help straight away if you have:

• a rash, hives, blisters or mouth sores
• swelling of the face or tongue, hoarseness, or trouble breathing or swallowing
• confusion, unusual behaviour, hallucinations, fits or thoughts of self-harm

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• have kidney, heart or lung disease
• have a weak immune system, for example from HIV
• are due to have the nasal spray flu vaccine (oseltamivir can make it less effective)
• are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding
• take any other medicines, vitamins or herbal products

The liquid contains sorbitol, so tell your doctor if you have hereditary fructose intolerance.

Once mixed, store the liquid as the label says: commercial suspension at room temperature for up to 10 days or in a fridge for up to 17 days. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.

Behaviour changes: people with flu, especially children and teenagers, can become confused or agitated, or act strangely. This can happen with or without the medicine. Watch closely and contact a doctor straight away if it happens.

See your doctor if you feel worse, get new symptoms or your flu does not improve.