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Rapivab

Generic name: peramivir [per-AM-i-vir]

Drug class: neuraminidase inhibitors

What is Rapivab?

Rapivab prevents an enzyme from releasing the virus from an infected cell.Rapivab can be used to treat flu symptoms in children and adults who are 2 years of age or older, with flu symptoms lasting up to two days.This medication guide does not list all possible uses of Rapivab.

Side effects of Rapivab

If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling on your face or in your throat, or a severe reaction to your skin (fever or sore throat, pain in the eyes, or skin irritation), or if your skin has rashes that are red or purple and cause blistering or peeling, seek emergency medical attention.

Rapivab may cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • Flu symptoms that are new or worsening;
  • Confusion, hallucinations, or unusual thoughts and behaviors.

Some of the side effects that Rapivab can cause include:

  • Diarrhea;
  • Constipation
  • Sleep problems (insomnia).

There may be other side effects. For medical advice about possible side effects, speak to your physician directly. You can contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 if any adverse reactions arise and need reporting.

Warnings

Tell your doctor all of your allergies and medical conditions before you start Rapivab. Tell your doctor if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.

Before you take this drug

Tell your doctor about any of the following issues:

  • If you have kidney disease or are currently on dialysis,
  • If you received the nasal flu vaccine (FluMist) within the last 2 weeks,

Rapivab is not known to harm unborn babies.Inform your physician immediately if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant.Breastfeeding may not be possible while taking this medication. You should consult your doctor if you are concerned about any risks.

How to take Rapivab?

Infusion of Rapivab into a vein is the only way to administer it. This injection will be given by a healthcare provider.Rapivab can be given in a single dosage. The medicine must be taken within 2 days after the flu symptoms begin.Rapivab does not treat infections that are caused by bacteria or fungus.If your symptoms don't improve or worsen after taking this medication, call your doctor.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Rapivab does not require a schedule of daily doses because it is administered as a single dosage.

What happens if I overdose?

Rapivab will be administered by a healthcare provider in a medical environment, so an overdose should not occur.

What should be avoided?

If you have been treated with Rapivab within 48 hours, you should not get the FluMist nasal vaccine unless your doctor has prescribed it.

Interaction with other drug

Rapivab may be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.