| Brand Name: |
Relenza |
| Generic Name: |
Zanamivir |
| Form: |
Powder |
| Manufacturer: |
GlaxoSmithKline |
What is Relenza?
Relenza containing the active ingredient zanamivir is a neuraminidase inhibitor type of antiviral medication. The medication can be used to treat certain types of influenza (flu) in patients who have had the symptoms of the flu for less than 2 days. It can help reduce influenza symptoms such as fatigue, body aches, headaches, fever or chills, sore throat, cough and stuffy noses by preventing the flu virus from growing. Some people may also use it to prevent the flu if they are exposed to the virus but do not yet have symptoms.
How is Relenza used?
Relenza should only be taken using the accompanied diskhaler as directed by a doctor. To treat influenza, the capsules are usually inhaled through the mouth twice per day, 2 inhalations each time for 5 days as soon as possible when flu symptoms appear. To prevent the flu, it is usually used once per day, 2 inhalations each time for 10 to 28 days. Contact a doctor for the correct dosage and length of treatment as it will depend on the patient’s condition and their response to the therapy. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting a doctor, even if you feel better, to prevent symptoms from returning worse than before.
Adverse effects
Patients using Relenza may encounter unwanted side effects such as:
- Dizziness
- Coughing
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
- Difficulty breathing
- Joint pain
Contact a doctor immediately should side effects persist or worsen.
Warnings
The capsules should only be used with the accompanied diskhaler and not with other inhalers, diskhalers or nebulizer.
Immediately proceed to your nearest emergency department if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms usually associated with such a reaction include difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, swelling, skin rashes, and hives.
Relenza is not always suitable for all patients. Always consult your health care provider prior to using this medication if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, using any other medication (prescription or non-prescription), using any herbal products or supplements, or if you have any allergies or other health problems.
The correct dosage and prescription commonly depend on the patient and the condition being treated. Do not adjust your dosage without the approval of your health care provider. This product is only for use as prescribed and instructed. |
