Relenza

Relenza is an anti viral medication used to treat infection caused due to influenza virus in patients who have had symptoms for less than 2 days. It is also helpful in reducing the transmission of the flu virus. Relenza is a drug prescribed for the treatment of infection caused by two of the most common flu viruses. The medication can be used for other purposes than those listed.

USES
The FDA has approved Relenza for the treatment of type A and B influenza, the two types most responsible for flu epidemics. The drug is very effective in patients who needed to start treatment within two days of the onset of symptoms.

HOW TO TAKE
Follow the guidelines issued by your health care professional while using Relenza. Read the instruction carefully to load the DISKHALER with one ROTADISK foil pack. When you are ready to take a dose, breathe out fully and put the white mouthpiece into your mouth, being sure to keep the inhaler level so that the medicine does not spill out. Close your lips around the mouthpiece, being sure not to cover the small holes on either side of it. Take a steady, deep breath in. Hold your breath for a few seconds. Repeat this process if directed by your doctor to take more than one inhalation with each dose. Replace the cover on the mouthpiece. Relenza is usually dosed 2 inhalations twice a day, approximately 12 hours apart for 5 days. Whenever possible, two doses should be taken on the first day of treatment as long as there is at least 2 hours between the 2 doses. On the following days, the doses should be about 12 hours apart at approximately the same time each day.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
The chances of adverse effects with Relenza are rare but sometimes they can cause serious side effects like an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); Serious, even fatal, bronchospasm (difficulty breathing) or decreased lung function has been reported with the use of Relenza. Side effects that usually do not require medical attention are coughing, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, nasal congestion, nausea and vomiting. Consult your doctor immediately if you undergo any such problem.

PRECAUTIONS
Relenza comes under the FDA category C medication. Therefore it is necessary to seek your doctor's advice before taking the medication if you are pregnant, expecting to get pregnant or breast feeding. People suffering from chronic lung disease such as asthma or COPD should avoid using the medication.

DRUG INTERACTIONS
Relenza's drug interaction have not came under light yet but it is important to inform your doctor before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

NOTES
If you have any questions about Relenza, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

MISSED DOSE
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

STORAGE
Relenza can be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat.