Zanamivir Side Effects and Warnings

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

• This medicine is not to be taken in place of the flu shot. If healthcare provider has recommended the flu shot, you need to get it.

• If you have lung disease, talk with healthcare provider. This medicine is not generally used in patients with these diseases.

• Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.

What are some possible side effects of this medicine?

• Headache.

• Nausea or vomiting. Small frequent meals, frequent mouth care, sucking hard, sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may help.

• Diarrhea.

• Nasal and throat irritation.

• Cough.

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency department immediately.

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.

• Difficulty breathing.

• Severe behavioral problems.

• Significant change in thinking clearly and logically.

• Any rash.

• No improvement in condition or feeling worse.