Relenza

Uses
Relenza (Zanamivir) is used to prevent certain types flu (influenza prophylaxis) in persons who have spent time in the company of patients infected with the influenza virus. It is also used to treat influenza A and B in patients who have shown symptoms for 2 days or less. This drug belongs to a class of medicines referred to by doctors as neuraminidase inhibitors, and it works by inhibiting the ability of the virus that causes flu symptoms from growing and spreading in the body, allowing the immune system to destroy the virus.

Dosage and Administration
Relenza (Zanamivir) comes in special disk shaped foil packs, and each foil pack contains 4 blisters, with 5mg of medication in each blister. It also includes a diskhaler, which is a device used to inhale the medication. To administer it, the foil pack is inserted into the diskhaler and the medicine inhaled. Patients are advised to refer to the instructions provided with the packaging for further instructions. In all cases, the correct dosage will be determined by a doctor.

Adult patients who are treating flu symptoms have sometimes been instructed to administer 2 inhalations at 12 hour intervals, with treatment lasting for a period of 5 days. There is a possibility that some patients will be instructed by their doctor to administer 2 doses on the first day of treatment, with an interval of 2 hours in between each dose, and for the next days of treatment, doses should be at 12 hour intervals. Adults taking this medicine for the prevention of the flu are sometimes told to administer 2 doses every 12 hours, with treatment lasting for 10 to 28 days.

Side effects
Patients undergoing treatment with Relenza (Zanamivir) may experience:

• Vomiting
• Dizzy sensation
• Nasal irritation
• Soreness in the joints
• Soreness affecting the ears

While using this medicine, any bothersome or persistent side effects should be reported to the prescribing doctor. If any serious side effects occur after using this medicine, treatment will be needed straight away.

Precautions
If an inhaled flu vaccine is used either 2 weeks before or else 48 hours after using this medicine, there is a possibility that the effectiveness of the vaccine may be reduced.

Patients undergoing treatment with this medicine should be carefully observed for signs of unusual behaviour, such as hallucinations or confusion. If this occurs, medical attention will be required straight away.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Relenza (Zanamivir) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.