Zanamivir



RelenzaŽ







Zanamivir

(za NA mi veer)

U.S. Brand Names
RelenzaŽ
Canadian Brand Names
RelenzaŽ
Pharmacologic Category
Antiviral Agent; Neuraminidase Inhibitor
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • Do not give this medicine to a child younger that 7 years of age.
  • If you have an allergy to zanamivir or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to treat the flu.
How does it work?
  • Zanamivir works to injure the virus and fight the infection.
How is it best taken?
  • To gain the most benefit, do not miss doses.
  • Use prescription as directed, even if feeling better.
  • For inhaling (puffing) only.
  • Begin medicine as soon as possible.
  • Take this medicine in the morning and evening for 5 days.
  • Take two doses on the first day of treatment if possible. Separate doses by at least 2 hours that first day.
  • Drink plenty of noncaffeine-containing liquid unless told to drink less liquid by healthcare provider.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • This medicine is not to be taken in place of the flu shot. If healthcare provider has recommended the flu shot, you need to get it.
  • If you have lung disease, talk with healthcare provider. This medicine is not generally used in patients with these diseases.
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Headache.
  • Nausea or vomiting. Small frequent meals, frequent mouth care, sucking hard, sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may help.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Nasal and throat irritation.
  • Cough.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
  • Take good care of your teeth. See a dentist regularly.
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Store at room temperature.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: