Zanamivir
Generic name: zanamivir [ zan-AM-i-vir ]
Brand name: Relenza
Dosage form: inhalation powder (5 mg)
Drug classes:Inhaled anti-infectives, Neuraminidase inhibitors
What is zanamivir?
Zanamivir is an antiviral medicine that blocks the actions of viruses in your body.
Zanamivir is used to treat flu symptoms caused by influenza virus in people who have had symptoms for less than 2 days. Zanamivir may also be given to prevent influenza in people who may be exposed but do not yet have symptoms. Zanamivir will not treat the common cold.
Zanamivir should not be used in place of getting a yearly flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control recommends an annual flu shot to help protect you each year from new strains of influenza virus.
Zanamivir may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Some people using zanamivir have had sudden unusual changes in mood or behavior, most often in children. It is not certain that zanamivir is the exact cause. Even without using zanamivir, anyone with influenza can have neurologic or behavioral effects that may lead to confusion or hallucinations. Call your doctor right away if the person using zanamivir has any signs of unusual thoughts or behavior.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to zanamivir or to lactose (milk sugar).
Do not use zanamivir to treat flu symptoms in a child younger than 7 years old. Children as young as 5 years old may use zanamivir to prevent flu symptoms.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or any other chronic lung condition.
It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. However, getting sick with influenza during pregnancy can cause complications leading to birth defects, low birth weight, preterm delivery, or stillbirth. Your doctor will decide whether you should use zanamivir if you are pregnant.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that pregnant women may receive a yearly flu vaccine to prevent influenza. Zanamivir is not to be used in place of the yearly flu shot.
It may not be safe to breast-feed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.
How should I use zanamivir?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruc...
