Oseltamivir

Generic Details

Generic Name

Oseltamivir

Other Names

  • Tamiflu

Drug Class

  • Neuraminidase inhibitors

Chemical Formula

C16H28N2O4

Molecular Weight

312.404 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Inhibition of neuraminidase enzyme

Indications

  • Treatment of influenza A and B viruses

Common Dosage Forms

  • Capsules
  • Suspension

Typical Dosage

  • 75 mg twice daily for 5 days

Pediatric Dosage

  • Dosage based on weight

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dose adjustment may be necessary

Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Headache
  • Insomnia
  • Dizziness

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to oseltamivir

Pregnancy Category

  • C

Lactation Safety

  • L3 - Moderately safe

Drug Interactions

  • No significant interactions

Overdose Symptoms

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Neuropsychiatric effects

Antidote for Overdose

  • Supportive care

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
  • Distribution: Widely distributed in the body
  • Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
  • Excretion: Excreted mainly in the urine

Precautions

  • Renal impairment
  • Hepatic impairment

Warnings

  • Risk of neuropsychiatric events in influenza patients

Others

  • Highly effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset