Zanamivir Dry Powder Inhaler (ZANAMIVIR INHALER - ORAL INHALATION)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • flu
  • prevent viral infection

Brand Name(s): Relenza

Generic Name: Zanamivir

Instructions

The medicine disk needs to be placed into the inhaler before use. Please follow the instructions for the inhaler carefully.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Keep this medicine at room temperature. Protect from moisture and high humidity.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to show you how to use this medicine correctly.

Always inspect medicine disk before using. Do not use if it is punctured.

Do not open the cap covering the mouthpiece until you are ready to use the inhaler. Please follow the instructions for the inhaler carefully.

When ready to use, puncture the blister on the disk and keep the inhaler level. This will prevent the medicine from spilling out.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is less than 2 hours to the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses of this medicine at one time.

Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.

This medicine is not a substitute for a flu vaccine. It is important that you speak with your doctor about when you can take this medicine before or after your flu vaccine.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Be very careful not to spray the medicine into your eyes. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

If this medicine causes more wheezing or makes it harder to breathe, stop the medicine. Get medical help right away.

If you have any trouble using the medicine, please tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • coughing
  • dizziness

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • confusion
  • mood changes
  • shortness of breath
  • wheezing or difficulty breathing

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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