What is Tamiflu?

Tamiflu is an antiviral medicine commonly used for treating illnesses like influenza and H1N1 swine flu and acts by shortening the duration of the illness. It is generally prescribed by physicians to adult patients and children over the age of one year, with flu symptoms starting within last 48 hours. Although it is not suitable for pregnant women and children under 12 months, the H1N1 outbreak has allowed doctors to prescribe the drug, as these groups are most susceptible to the virus, and the benefits of using Tamiflu make up for the complications caused by its use. For patients having cardiac, respiratory or kidney problems, a medical doctor should be consulted before using Tamiflu. A five-day dose of Tamiflu, with two capsules each day, is prescribed by doctors for treating affected patients. A ten-day course with one capsule a day is usually recommended for prevention of flu, which may extend to six weeks during an outbreak. It is strongly advised by doctors to finish the full course of medicine, even if a patient recovers within a shorter term. General side-effects such as nausea and vomiting can be reduced if the medications are complemented with proper food and milk. Bronchitis, dizziness and insomnia are some of the rarer side-effects of Tamiflu