How to Obtain Tamiflu

• Tamiflu is a prescription medication, so you will have to make a trip to your doctor to obtain it. If you think you have the flu, you should see your doctor immediately. Tamiflu is effective only if taken within 48 hours of the onset of flu symptoms.
  
  

Flu Symptoms

• Flu symptoms often occur suddenly and can last for up to one week. Typical flu symptoms include fever of 100 degrees or higher, chills, headache, body aches, muscle aches, extreme fatigue or tiredness, a dry unproductive cough, sore throat, runny nose and chest discomfort. Stomach symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea sometimes occur and are more likely in children than in adults.
  
  

Prevention

• If someone in your household has the flu and you are vulnerable, Tamiflu can be taken for prevention. One dose daily for 10 days should prevent infection.
  
  Flu is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes or by hand due to touching something that has been contaminated by the virus. One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of the flu is to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and to wash hands frequently.
  
  

Treatment

• The flu can be a serious illness, especially for those with pre-existing health problems or for the elderly and infants. Tamiflu is effective for treatment of the flu as long as it is begun within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. Taking one dose twice a day for five days helps stop the spread of the virus within the body
  
  

Side Effects and Contraindications

• In most patients Tamiflu causes no side effects. The most common side effects are nausea and vomiting. Occasionally, patients may become confused and be at risk of injury. Unusual behavior should be reported to the doctor immediately. Rarely, allergic reactions and serious skin reactions might occur. These reactions may be serious, and you should notify your doctor immediately.
  
  You should not take Tamiflu if you are pregnant or nursing. Discuss any medications that you are taking with your doctor prior to taking Tamiflu. If you are allergic to oseltamivir phosphate or other ingredients found in Tamiflu, you should not take it.