What is Flumadine?
Flumadine, an antiviral medication, is used to treat or stop influenza A for people over 17 years of age. This medicine can also be used to prevent flu A among children aged 1–16 years. Flumadine might not be as effective in every flu season because some strains of the virus are resistant to it. This medication should not be seen as a replacement for getting a flu shot.The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends an annual influenza shot to protect you from the new strains of flu virus each year. This medication guide does not list all possible uses for flumadine.
Side effects of Flumadine
Immediately seek medical assistance if any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction arise: hives, difficulty breathing and swelling of lips, face, tongue or throat.
Flumadine can cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- If you feel extreme sleepiness or fall asleep even though you feel alert,
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
- Depression; agitation; aggression; behavioral changes; hallucinations; and thoughts of harming yourself.
- A seizure.
In older adults, side effects like headaches, dizziness, fatigue, anxiety, and nausea and stomach pain are more common.
Flumadine side effects include:
- Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
- Dry Mouth
- Sleep problems (insomnia);
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contacting the FDA in regards to potential side effects can be done at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
Tamiflu, amantadine, oseltamivir, influenza virus vaccine, inactivated, Fluzone, FluMist, and Relenza
Warnings
You should not get a nasal vaccine for 48 hours following your last flumadine dose.
Before you take this drug
Flumadine should not be used if you have an allergy to Flumadine or a similar medication called Amantadine.
Tell your doctor about any of the following:
- A seizure;
- Liver or kidney disease
This medicine is not known to harm an unborn child. Notify your physician immediately if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or planning on becoming pregnant.This medicine should not be used while breastfeeding.
How to take Flumadine?
Do not ignore any instructions or guides included with your medication and adhere to them precisely, including all directions on its label. Flumadine should be taken within 24 to 48 hours after experiencing flu symptoms. Continue taking this medication as instructed; symptoms may improve even before the virus has fully cleared out your system. Do not neglect to adhere to your physician's recommendations. Notify your physician immediately if you or the individual being treated with flumadine experience difficulty swallowing their tablet. If your symptoms remain unchanged or worsen, seek medical advice immediately. Store at room temperature away from heat and moisture
What happens if I miss the dose?
Do not take the missed dose. Use your next dose as usual. Do not take two doses in one go.
What happens if I overdose?
Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. Overdoses can be deadly. Overdose symptoms include agitation or hallucinations.
What should be avoided?
Avoid receiving a nasal influenza vaccine for 48 hours following your last flumadine dose. The vaccine might not work well, and you may not be fully protected. Don't drink alcohol. Side effects can be dangerous. Flumadine can affect your reactions. Avoid driving and other hazardous activities until you are familiar with how they will affect you. You may be unable to react.
Interaction with other drug
Flumadine can be worsened by other drugs, which make you sleepy. Before taking opioids, sleeping tablets, muscle relaxants or medicines for treating anxiety or seizures it is advisable to first consult with a healthcare provider. Flumadine may interact with other medicines, including vitamins and herbal remedies. Inform your physician of all medicines you are currently taking as well as those that you cease or begin taking in order to ensure proper dosage.
