Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) Pharmacist Protocol

These flashcards cover important terminology and concepts related to Tamiflu® and its use in treating and preventing influenza.

Tamiflu® (oseltamivir)

A Pharmacist Only Medicine used for the treatment or prophylaxis of influenza.

Pharmacist Only Medicine

Medication that can only be dispensed by a pharmacist, typically due to needing professional judgement.

Influenza

A viral infection that attacks the respiratory system, commonly causing fever, chills, and cough.

Contraindications

Specific situations where a drug should not be used due to potential harm to the patient.

Renal Impairment

A condition in which the kidneys fail to adequately filter waste products from the blood, affecting drug metabolism.

Dosage for adults

Tamiflu 75 mg should be taken twice daily for 5 days for treatment of influenza.

Prophylaxis

The prevention of disease, in this case, administering Tamiflu to prevent influenza after exposure.

Side effects

Unintended effects of a drug; for Tamiflu, they include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and headache.

Suspension

A liquid form of a medication that contains particles suspended in a liquid, often used for patients unable to swallow pills.

Neuropsychiatric events

Adverse psychological effects that have been reported in patients taking Tamiflu, though causality is unclear.

Symptoms of influenza

Common symptoms include fevers/chills, body aches, cough, and extreme tiredness.

When to refer to GP

Patients aged ≤ 12 years old, uncertain diagnosis, signs of secondary bacterial infection, or renal impairment.