Staflu
Generic Name
Oseltamivir Phosphate
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| staflu 125 mg suspension | ৳ 65.20 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Oseltamivir is an antiviral drug used for the treatment and prophylaxis of influenza (flu) caused by influenza A and B viruses. It works by inhibiting the neuraminidase enzyme, which is crucial for viral replication and release. The suspension form is typically used for children and adults who have difficulty swallowing capsules.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For treatment, 75 mg twice daily for 5 days. For prophylaxis, 75 mg once daily for 10 days or as directed by physician. Dosage volume from Staflu-125 mg Suspension must be calculated based on specific product concentration to achieve the prescribed mg dose.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, adjust for renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Adjusted dosage required: for CrCl 30-60 mL/min, 30 mg twice daily for treatment, 30 mg once daily for prophylaxis. For CrCl 10-30 mL/min, 30 mg once daily for treatment, 30 mg every other day for prophylaxis. Not recommended for CrCl <10 mL/min.
How to Take
Oral use. The suspension can be taken with or without food, though taking it with food may improve tolerability in some patients. Administer using the provided oral dosing device to ensure accurate dosing. Shake well before each use.
Mechanism of Action
Oseltamivir is a prodrug that is metabolized to its active form, oseltamivir carboxylate. Oseltamivir carboxylate is a potent and selective inhibitor of influenza A and B virus neuraminidase enzymes. Neuraminidase is a viral enzyme that cleaves sialic acid residues from glycoconjugates, which is essential for the release of newly formed virus particles from infected cells and for the spread of the virus within the respiratory tract. By inhibiting neuraminidase, oseltamivir prevents the release of progeny virions, thus reducing viral shedding and disease progression.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Symptom improvement typically within 24-48 hours.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged as oseltamivir carboxylate in the urine (renal excretion).
Half life
Oseltamivir carboxylate has a plasma elimination half-life of 6 to 10 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and extensively converted to oseltamivir carboxylate by hepatic esterases. Oral bioavailability of oseltamivir carboxylate is approximately 75%.
Metabolism
Oseltamivir (prodrug) is extensively converted to active metabolite oseltamivir carboxylate, primarily by hepatic esterases.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to oseltamivir phosphate or any component of the formulation.
- Severe allergic reactions to any neuraminidase inhibitor.
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
May increase oseltamivir carboxylate exposure due to competition for renal tubular secretion. Consider dose adjustment.
Live attenuated influenza vaccine
Oseltamivir may reduce the therapeutic efficacy of live attenuated influenza vaccine. Avoid concurrent use; wait 48 hours after stopping oseltamivir before administering the vaccine, and wait 2 weeks after vaccination before starting oseltamivir.
Storage
Unreconstituted powder: Store at room temperature (15-30°C), protected from moisture. Reconstituted suspension: Store refrigerated (2-8°C) or at room temperature (up to 25°C) for the specified duration, do not freeze.
Overdose
Overdoses have been reported with oseltamivir. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, and in rare cases, neurological events. Treatment is supportive; hemodialysis can remove oseltamivir carboxylate.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown if oseltamivir is excreted in human milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to oseltamivir phosphate or any component of the formulation.
- Severe allergic reactions to any neuraminidase inhibitor.
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
May increase oseltamivir carboxylate exposure due to competition for renal tubular secretion. Consider dose adjustment.
Live attenuated influenza vaccine
Oseltamivir may reduce the therapeutic efficacy of live attenuated influenza vaccine. Avoid concurrent use; wait 48 hours after stopping oseltamivir before administering the vaccine, and wait 2 weeks after vaccination before starting oseltamivir.
Storage
Unreconstituted powder: Store at room temperature (15-30°C), protected from moisture. Reconstituted suspension: Store refrigerated (2-8°C) or at room temperature (up to 25°C) for the specified duration, do not freeze.
Overdose
Overdoses have been reported with oseltamivir. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, and in rare cases, neurological events. Treatment is supportive; hemodialysis can remove oseltamivir carboxylate.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown if oseltamivir is excreted in human milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years for unopened powder. Once reconstituted, 10 days refrigerated (2-8°C) or 5 days at room temperature (up to 25°C).
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of oseltamivir in reducing the duration and severity of influenza symptoms and preventing complications, especially when initiated within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine specific lab monitoring is required. Liver and kidney function tests may be considered in patients with pre-existing conditions or during prolonged treatment.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize starting treatment within 48 hours of symptom onset for maximal benefit.
- Educate patients on proper suspension preparation and administration.
- Monitor for neuropsychiatric events, especially in pediatric and adolescent patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if you start to feel better.
- Shake the suspension well before each use and measure the dose accurately using the provided oral syringe or measuring cup.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible, provided it is within 2 hours of the regularly scheduled time. If more than 2 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Oseltamivir is not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, patients experiencing dizziness or confusion should avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Ensure adequate rest and hydration.
- Practice good hand hygiene to prevent spread of infection.
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