Oseltamivir is a prescription medication used to prevent and treat certain forms of influenza (the flu). This drug is commonly supplied as an oral capsule or suspension (liquid).

Note that oseltamivir is an antiviral medication, meaning it is ineffective against bacterial, parasitic, or fungal infections. In addition, oseltamivir is only used as a treatment for the flu. It is not prescribed for other forms of viral infections or the common cold.

Oseltamivir is used to treat certain forms of the influenza (flu) virus. It is also prescribed to prevent flu infections in adults and children who have spent time with someone who has the flu or has been in an area where a flu outbreak has occurred.

The flu (or influenza) is a viral infection of the respiratory system (namely your nose, throat, and lungs). Influenza is highly contagious and is commonly passed from person to person most frequently in the months between October and May. According to the CDC, the flu is primarily spread through tiny droplets that are produced when someone talks, sneezes, or coughs. Flu symptoms tend to come on suddenly and are usually more severe than those of a common cold.

Common symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever
  
• Body aches
  
• Cough
  
• Sore throat
  
• Chills or sweating
  
• Runny or stuffy nose
  
• Fatigue
  
• Headache
  
• Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults)
  

According to the CDC, nearly 8% of the population will be infected by the influenza virus every year, with children and adults over the age of 65 getting sick from the virus most frequently.

Oseltamivir has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these adverse reactions do not go away within a few days.

Common side effects reported while taking oseltamivir include:

• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Headache
  
• Diarrhea
  

This is not a complete list of adverse effects – though these are among the most common. Seek medical attention right away if you experience symptoms such as swelling, rash, difficulty breathing, seizures, or skin irritation.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform your health care provider about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, and any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with oseltamivir. Oseltamivir can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects. In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this medication.

Oseltamivir is commonly administered as an oral capsule or suspension (liquid).

Influenza treatment: For adults and children over the age of 12, the preliminary dose of oseltamivir starts at 75 mg (oral tablet) or 12.5 mL (liquid) to be taken 2x per day (once in the morning and once in the evening) for 5 days. This medication can be taken with meals or on an empty stomach.

Influenza prevention: For adults and children over the age of 12, the preliminary dose of oseltamivir starts at 75 mg (oral tablet) or 12.5 mL (liquid) to be taken once per day for at least 10 days. This medication can be taken with meals or on an empty stomach.

Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of oseltamivir without consulting your doctor first. Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

Oseltamivir is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not oseltamivir is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for oseltamivir to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply book an online flu visit on Sesame to speak with a provider and discuss if oseltamivir is right for you. If appropriate, your provider can order the prescription to a pharmacy of your choice for fast and convenient pickup.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.