Relenza Diskhaler (Zanamivir)

Relenza (Zanamivir) is an antiviral medicine for the treatment of influenza and for reducing the chance of getting the flu in community, in adults and children 7 years of age and older. Relenza is not a substitute for the flu shot. When Relenza is inhaled, it helps stop the spread of the influenza virus to healthy cells in your respiratory tract. With less flu virus in your respiratory tract, you experience a less severe disease because your body’s defense system doesn’t have to work too hard to fight the virus. Relenza alleviates the symptoms you are feeling and shorten the duration of your flu. Relenza can also reduce the chance of getting the flu if there is a flu outbreak in the community. Relenza works best when you start taking it as soon as you begin to feel symptoms and no later than 2 days after flu symptoms start. It is important that you inhale, not swallow, each dose as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. If you have any problems taking this medicine, tell your doctor or pharmacist.

Manufacturer Information

The common side effects of Relenza Diskhaler may include headaches, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, appetite problems, nasal irritation, bronchitis, cough, sinusitis, ear, nose and throat infections, fever, chills, body pain and dizziness, allergic reactions and rashes. Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms:

• allergic reactions such as swelling of the face or in the mouth;
• breathing problems;
• behavioral disturbances;
• skin rashes

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Please call your doctor if you have any further concerns or questions.

If you develop worsening respiratory symptoms such as wheezing or shortness of breath, stop using Relenza and contact your doctor right away. You should not take Relenza if you: are allergic to zanamivir or any component of the zanamivir inhalation powder, are lactose intolerant, have severe asthma or severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Before taking Relenza, inform your doctor if you: are pregnant, or likely to become pregnant soon, or if you are breast feeding, are allergic to lactose or milk protein, have any type of chronic condition including lung, kidney or heart disease, suffer from asthma or chronic respiratory disease. Tell your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist about all the medicines you take, including drugs prescribed by other doctors, vitamins, minerals, natural supplements, or alternative medicines.

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