INTRODUCTION

The key drug in fighting the disease is Tamiflu and it has, according to Health Secretary Alan Johnson, already proved effective on patients in Mexico.

Demand for Tamiflu – manufactured by Swiss drugs company Roche – is soaring. Pharmacists have warned that their supplies, which are separate from the Government stockpile, may not last, with demand in some areas up 1,000 per cent. Meanwhile, many people are sufficiently worried by the outbreak of swine flu to seek their own supplies online, and not always from reputable sites. So what do you need to know about Tamiflu? Here, with the help of leading experts, we set the record straight.

Can i still die with Tamiflu????

Yes, according to Dr John Watkins, clinical senior lecturer in the departofment of primary care and public health at Cardiff University, and a consultant epidemiologist. It is critical for a sufferer to take Tamiflu as soon as possible after developing symptoms. The earlier you take it – within two days is best – the smaller the virus load in your body and the less chance of potentially fatal complications such as pneumonia.

SIDE-EFFECTS

The most common ones are nausea, vomiting and stomach ache. Tamiflu should be taken after food. However, if a person is sick within an hour of taking it, it is likely to be ineffective. warning that it can cause hallucinations, delirium or abnormal behaviour, which sometimes ‘results in fatal outcomes. should not be prescribed to teenagers for fear that it can lead to bizarre and self-destructive behaviour, after investigatingthe deaths of 18 Japanese children.

Can i buy it online ?????

You can check whether they are registered with the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. In December 2007, the society launched an internet pharmacy logo to identify legitimate online pharmacies so that the public can be sure they are buying safe and genuine medicines online. For further information go to www.rpsgb.org.uk.

When you buy on the internet from a reputable company or pharmacy, you should get a free online consultation which is reviewed by a registered doctor.

Once you fill in the prescription form provided and your medical details are checked and approved by their doctor, you can place an order.

Is there a Vaccine for SWINE FLU???

Scientists in the UK and the US are racing to produce a new bespoke vaccine, but it may take months to perfect and to manufacture enough supplies to meet what could be huge demand.A vaccine was used to protect humans from a version of swine flu in the US in 1976. However, it caused serious side effects, including an estimated 500 cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome, a nervous disorder leading to weakness and paralysis. There were more deaths from the vaccine than the outbreak.

How do i Take it ????

In tablet form, the normal dose to treat an influenza infection in adults is one 75mg capsule taken twice a day for five days, says Dr Denning. As a pre-emptive strike, it is taken once a day for ten days.

Do i have a one more drug option for Swine FLU???

No, another medication known as Relenza is also available. It is inhaled rather than taken in tablet form. ‘Relenza becomes effective in minutes whereas Tamiflu takes about an hour to get into the system,’ adds Professor Oxford. Relenza is used for pregnant women and people with certain kidney conditions who are unable to take Tamiflu.

Wat age one can take from ???????

One year

How does the drug work

Tamiflu, known by its generic name as oseltamivir, is not a cure for swine flu, but can help sufferers recover by relieving some of the symptoms – as well as reducing the duration of the illness and the potential risks for serious complications, such as pneumonia. the drug works by inhibiting chemicals known as neuraminidase enzymes in the virus. ‘This then stops the virus from reproducing and spreading in the body, so shortening and reducing the severity of the symptoms when taken within two days of falling ill.’

Commonly asked Questions on Swine FLU????

Q: I have a runny nose and sore throat. Do I have swine flu?

A: Not if you don’t have a rapidly rising temperature and you haven’t been in a high risk area: Mexico, Texas, San Diego or New York.

Q: Can I take anything to prevent getting swine flu?

A: If you are in contact with someone with a confirmed case of swine flu you can take Tamiflu preventatively. Otherwise there is nothing we can offer.

Q: What should I do if I think I have symptoms this weekend?

A: Do not go to see the doctor. Stay at home and call your GP, or NHS direct. You will be visited at home if it sounds as if you may be a high risk.

Q: Do you think I need to get my own supply?

A: No. Should you need it, Tamiflu will be made available to you and your family.