Oseltamivir 75 mg

Oseltamivir 75 mg is an antiviral medication commonly prescribed to treat or prevent the flu (influenza). It is not an antibiotic and works best when taken early during flu symptoms. This article covers what Oseltamivir does, how to take it properly, possible side effects and other important precautions.

What is Oseltamivir 75 mg?

Oseltamivir 75 mg is an antiviral medicine that belongs to a class called neuraminidase inhibitors. It is specifically designed to fight influenza viruses (types A and B) by stopping their spread in the body. Oseltamivir does not cure the flu instantly but it can shorten its duration and reduce symptom severity.

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

Uses of Oseltamivir 75 mg

Oseltamivir 75 mg is used for both the treatment and prevention of flu:

Treatment: If you start taking it within 48 hours of feeling flu symptoms, it can help you recover faster, possibly shortening your illness by 1 to 2 days.
Prevention: If you've been around someone who has the flu virus, like a family member or a coworker, taking this medicine can reduce the chance of getting infected.
It is useful for people with a weakened immune system, chronic conditions or at high risk of flu complications like the elderly or young children.

Oseltamivir 75 mg Dosage

The amount of Oseltamivir you take can vary based on your age, weight and whether you are using it to treat the flu or to help prevent it. It's important to always follow your doctor's instructions.

For Flu Treatment:

Adults and teens (13 years and older): Take Oseltamivir 75 mg two times a day for 5 days.
Children: The dose is given based on their weight and it is usually taken two times a day for 5 days.

For Flu Prevention:

Adults and teens: Take Oseltamivir 75 mg once a day for 7 to 10 days.
Children: Based on your child's Weight, you can give them once once-daily dose for 10 days

How to Take Oseltamivir 75 mg?

You can take this medicine with or without food, though food may reduce stomach upset
Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water.
Take the medicine at the same time every day for best results.
If you are using the liquid form, measure the dose carefully with a proper device
It’s important to start taking Oseltamivir 75 mg within 48 hours after you first notice symptoms for it to work best.

Oseltamivir 75 mg Side Effects

Most people tolerate Oseltamivir 75 mg well, but some may experience:

Common side effects:

Nausea or vomiting
Headaches
Diarrhea
Stomach pain

Rare but serious side effects:

Changes in behaviour or confusion (especially in children)
Hallucinations or having seizures (very rare)
Skin rashes or allergic reactions

If you experience any severe reactions, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately.

What to Do if You Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
If it’s almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed dose, do not take two doses at once.
Continue the remaining doses as scheduled to complete the course.

Precautions and Interactions

If you are considering taking Oseltamivir, it is essential to talk to your doctor first. Here are some key points to discuss:

Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, heart problems or immune disorders.
Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
Discuss any other medicines you are taking like:
- Flu vaccine, especially if you received the nasal spray version
- Other antivirals medicines
- Herbal supplements or natural products

Oseltamivir 75 mg is not a replacement for the flu vaccine. You can safely get a flu shot while taking Oseltamivir, but avoid the nasal spray version of the vaccine.

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

Schedule Your Appointment

Conclusion

Oseltamivir 75 mg is a powerful antiviral medication that helps treat and prevent the flu when used correctly. It’s not a substitute for the flu vaccines, but it is a helpful option, particularly for people who are more at risk or during outbreaks of the flu. Always follow your doctor’s instructions, take it on time and consult your doctor for any unusual symptoms. Taking it early can lead to better results.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Oseltamivir is an antiviral, not an antibiotic. It treats viral infections like the flu, not bacterial ones.

It can lower your risk of getting the flu if taken after exposure, but it doesn’t guarantee full protection. Getting a flu vaccine yearly is the best prevention.

Oseltamivir is most effective when taken within 48 hours of flu symptoms. Delayed use may reduce its effectiveness in shortening illness duration.

It can shorten flu duration by about 1–2 days and reduce the severity of symptoms, especially if started early.

It may help lower fever indirectly by reducing the viral load, but it is not a fever-reducing medication. For fever, paracetamol or acetaminophen may be prescribed.

Start as soon as possible after flu symptoms appear—ideally within 48 hours.

Yes, with weight-based dosing, it is commonly prescribed for children aged 2 weeks and older under medical supervision.