Zanamivir (Inhalation—Systemic)

Brand Names : Relenza

Category

• Antiviral

Description

Zanamivir (zan-AM-e-veer)is used in the treatment of the infection caused by the flu virus (influenza A and influenza B). Zanamivir may reduce flu symptoms (weakness, headache, fever, cough, and sore throat) by 1 to 1.5 days. Zanamivir does not prevent influenza infection.

This medicine must be started within 2 days of having flu symptoms (weakness, headache, fever, cough, and sore throat). Zanamivir will not keep you from spreading the flu virus to other people. Zanamivir may not work for everybody. Zanamivir may not be for you if you are severely sick or have a breathing problem (like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). If you receive the flu vaccine every year, continue to do so.

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S. -

• Relenza

In Canada -

• Relenza