Taking Tamiflu at the first sign of flu
symptoms may reduce the amount of time you’re sick.
How to Take Tamiflu
Take Tamiflu within 48 hours of flu symptom onset. You have a choice of capsules or liquid. It’s best to take Tamiflu with food—there is less chance of stomach upset if you take it with a light snack or a meal.
If you have already been exposed to the flu, but you don't have any symptoms, you can take Tamiflu for up to 6 weeks to help prevent you from getting sick.
Flu Treatment
For adults and teens aged 13 years and older
- Take 75 mg, twice daily, for 5 days.
For children 2 weeks of age to 12 years old
- Take 1 dose, based on your child's weight, twice daily, for 5 days.
- Tamiflu is available in capsule and liquid form.
- See full prescribing information for dosing based on your child's weight.
Flu Prevention
For adults and teens aged 13 years and older
- Take 1 dose, once daily, for 10 days or as long as prescribed.
For children from 1 to 12 years old
- Take 1 dose, based on your child's weight, once daily, for 10 days or as long as prescribed.
- See full prescribing information for dosing based on your child's weight.
- Tamiflu is not approved for flu prevention in children less than 1 year of age.
FAQs
Below are several commonly asked questions and their answers. If you have additional questions not covered here, be sure to ask your doctor.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Tamiflu?
If you forget to take your medicine, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is 2 hours or less before your next scheduled dose. Then continue to take Tamiflu at the usual times. Do not take 2 doses at a time to make up for a missed dose. If you miss several doses, tell your doctor and follow the advice given to you.
Can I take Tamiflu with other medications?
Your doctor or healthcare provider may recommend taking over-the-counter medications to help lessen your symptoms.
As with any medication, be sure to discuss with your doctor any over-the-counter or prescription medicines you are currently taking before beginning Tamiflu therapy.
How do I store Tamiflu?
Follow these guidelines:
- Store Tamiflu capsules at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
- Store liquid Tamiflu in the refrigerator for up to 17 days between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
- Store liquid Tamiflu for up to 10 days at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
- Safely throw away any unused Tamiflu that is out of date or no longer needed.
How do I administer liquid Tamiflu?
If you are taking liquid Tamiflu or giving it to a loved one, your pharmacist should give you a small measuring cup or dosing syringe, since there is not a dosing device in the carton. Follow your doctor’s instructions on how to take Tamiflu and which dose to take.