Oseltamivir Phosphate

Description

This page contains brief details about the drug oseltamivir phosphate, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Date of Approval

Oseltamivir Phosphate is an anti-viral medication that belongs to neuraminidase inhibitor and was approved by the FDA on December 14, 2000, for the treatment and prevention of influenza A and B.

Mechanism of Action of Oseltamivir Phosphate

Oseltamivir Phosphate is a pro-drug that gets converted into its active form (Oseltamivir carboxylate) inside the body. It is a neuraminidase inhibitor used in the treatment and prophylaxis of influenza. It works by inhibiting the neuraminidase enzyme present on the surface of the virus. This enzyme is essential for the virus to enter the healthy cells and release newly formed virus particles from infected cells, thereby spreading the infectious virus throughout the body.  Oseltamivir Phosphate reduces viral shedding and infectivity.

Uses of Oseltamivir Phosphate

Oseltamivir Phosphate is used to treat Influenza A and B in patients two weeks of age and older who do not have symptoms for more than 2 days. It also prevents influenza type A and B in patients 1 year and older.

Oseltamivir Phosphate Dosage available

Oseltamivir Phosphate is a prescription drug available as an oral capsule and suspension. The dosage form, dose, and frequency of administration will be decided by your doctor based on your disease condition and other factors. Take medicine as directed by your physician. Take it with or without food. The chances of stomach upset are less if you take this medicine with food. If you are prescribed a capsule, swallow the capsule as a whole with water. Do not break, chew or crush the capsule.

Oral suspension is prescribed when the patient cannot swallow the tablet form of this medicine. Shake the suspension well before every use. The recommended dose is based on the individual’s body weight. It is important to complete the whole course, even if you start to feel better quickly.