National Drug Safety Publicity Week | Top Ten Drug Use Tips for the Public: Oseltamivir for influenza, children should be careful when using the drug

Oseltamivir is a commonly used influenza prevention and treatment drug. It can be used to treat influenza A and B in adults and children aged 1 year and above, and to prevent influenza A and B in adults and adolescents aged 13 years and above.

Children are a special population for medication. When using oseltamivir to prevent and treat influenza, granules are usually selected for easy administration. Special attention should be paid to the following matters: Timing of medication: As a therapeutic medication, oseltamivir should be taken within 48 hours after the onset of influenza symptoms. The earlier it is used, the better the effect. If the treatment is effective, the fever can usually be reduced within 48 hours. As a preventive medication, oseltamivir should be taken within 2 days after close contact with influenza patients. Dosage: The dosage for children should be calculated based on weight (refer to the instructions), and parents should ensure that the medication is accurately administered according to the doctor's instructions. Medication course: It is generally recommended to take it for 5 consecutive days. Even if the child's condition improves during the medication period, the entire course of treatment should be completed. Adverse reactions: The most common adverse reactions of oseltamivir include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Symptoms such as rash and changes in mental status may also occur. Children must take medication under adult supervision. If suspected adverse reactions occur, professional medical personnel should weigh the pros and cons and decide whether to stop the medication.