Information about Zanamivir

Generic Name : Zanamivir
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Zanamivir are provided here.

Pronunciation : zan-AM-i-vir

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Zanamivir, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y41.5 Therapeutic Classification : Antivirals

Trade Names/Brand Names of Zanamivir

India :

Z Flu DPI (5mg) | Virenza (5mg) | Z-Flu DPI (5mg)

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International :

Relenza

Why is Zanamivir Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antiviral agent and neuraminidase inhibitor, prescribed for the prevention and treatment of flu. It suppresses the activity of the neuraminidase enzyme, which is responsible for the spread of the virus from an infected cell.

When should Zanamivir not be taken? (Contraindications)

Hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Zanamivir?

Adult: Inhalation- Influenza A and B- 10 mg twice daily for 5 days, to be started as soon as possible (within 48 hours) after onset of symptoms.
Prophylaxis of influenza A and B- Household setting: 10 mg once daily for 10 days, to be started within 36 hours of exposure; community outbreak: 10 mg once daily for 28 days, to be started within 5 days of outbreak.

How should Zanamivir be taken?

It comes in a powder form for inhalation, two times per day.

What are the warnings and precautions for Zanamivir?

•Caution should be exercised in patients with history of heart, kidney, liver, lung disease, asthma, bronchitis or other breathing problems, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Patient may develop with serious life threatening breathing problem, wheezing problem, severe allergic reactions; if it is so stop the medication immediately.

Patient may develop with suicidal thoughts or unusual behavior, watch them carefully.

Avoid vaccination during the treatment.

• It may cause dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Zanamivir?

Body as a whole- Swelling of the face and tongue regions, allergic reactions, fever, chills, lack of appetite, running nose, irritation in the nose region, sore throat and joint pain.
Skin- Blistering of the skin, skin rashes and itching.
Gastrointestinal- Vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea and nausea.
Central Nervous System - Headache, sudden confusion state, nightmares and unusual behavior.
Respiratory- Nasal signs and symptoms, nasal inflammation, bronchitis, cough, sinusitis and ear, nose and throat infections.