What is Xofluza?
The drug Xofluza can be used to treat flu-related symptoms caused by the flu virus for those who have been suffering from symptoms for less than 48 hours. Baloxavir marboxil is not a treatment for the common cold.The drug is also used to reduce influenza symptoms in those who have had contact with someone who has the flu.
Xofluza is for adults as well as children aged 5 or more years old with a weight of at least 44 pounds (20 kg).Xofluza is not recommended as a substitute for an annual flu shot. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, a flu shot can help safeguard you from the emergence of new strains of the influenza virus.
Warnings
Xofluza can contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions or other issues.
Follow all the instructions on the label of your medication and in the package. Inform your health care providers about your medical issues, allergies, and all medications you take.
Before you take this drug
You shouldn't use Xofluza if you're allergic to the chemical baloxavir marboxil.
Inform your doctor if you are expecting or planning to be pregnant. Pregnancy-related influenza could cause serious problems that could be harmful to both the mother and baby. The benefits of treating influenza could outweigh any risk for the infant.
The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention suggest that women who are pregnant receive a flu vaccine at any stage of pregnancy to safeguard both their babies and themselves from getting the flu.
Discuss with your doctor if you are nursing.
How to take Xofluza?
You should take Xofluza exactly as directed by your physician. Follow the instructions on your prescription label and review all medication guides or instruction sheets.Xofluza usually comes as a single dose to be taken once. The medicine is available as tablets or as a liquid (oral suspension) that is made by a health professional.
The doses of Xofluza depend on weight. Follow the dosing guidelines carefully, and don't give this medication to another individual.Take Xofluza as soon as you begin to notice flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, pain, sore throat, and nasal stuffiness). The medicine might prove ineffective if you have been sick for more than 48 hours.
If you're taking Xofluza to treat flu symptoms, be sure to take your dose immediately after coming into contact with someone else who has the flu.You can consume Xofluza either with or without meals.
Avoid taking this medicine along with dairy products like yoghurt or milk or juices with calcium fortification.Avoid the use of Xofluza along with a laxative, an antacid, or a vitamin or mineral supplement containing calcium, aluminium, magnesium, iron, selenium, and zinc.Contact your physician if your symptoms don't improve or if they become worse.Place the tablets in the blister packs in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture. The tablets must be used as fluid after 10 days from the time of mixing.
Dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Influenza:
from 20kg to under 80kg: 40mg taken orally at once in a single dose
At least 80kg at a time. 80 mg taken orally in one dose
Use:
For the treatment of acute uncomplicated flu in patients who have been symptomatic for less than 48 hours, who are otherwise healthy, and who are at the highest risk of developing complications related to influenza.
Usual Adult Dose for Influenza Prophylaxis:
from 20kg to under 80 kg, 40 mg taken orally in one dose
At least 80kg and 80 mg once orally in one dose
Use:
Prophylactic treatment for influenza post-exposure following contact with an individual who is suffering from influenza
Usual Paediatric Dose for Influenza:
5 years or older
Less than 20kg 2 mg/kg once orally in a single dose
20 kg or less: 40 mg taken orally in one dose
A minimum of 80 kg per day. 80 mg once orally in one dose
Use:
to treat acute, uncomplicated influenza in those who have experienced symptoms for a period of no more than 48 hours and who are otherwise healthy, including children aged 5 years of age or older or adults and children who are 12 years old or older who are at risk of developing complications related to influenza.
Usual Paediatric Dose for Influenza Prophylaxis:
5 years or older
--Less than 20 kg: 2 mg/kg once orally in one dose
20 kg or less: 40 mg taken orally in one dose
At least 80kg per day. 80 mg once orally in a single dose
Use:
For postexposure prophylaxis against influenza in patients of 5 years of age or older who have had contact with a person who is suffering from influenza.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Xofluza can be taken in a single dose and doesn't have a day-to-day dosing schedule.
What happens if I overdose?
For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided Xofluza?
Consult your physician prior to receiving a "live" flu vaccine (such as nasal FluMist). Baloxavir marboxil can affect the drug effect of FluMist, making the vaccine less efficient.
Side effects of Xofluza
See a doctor immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms of an allergy reaction to Xofluza, such as hives, breathing problems, or swelling of your lips, face, and throat,
Common Xofluza adverse effects for teens and adults could include:
- Cough and chest congestion;
- Nausea, diarrhoea;
- Headache
- Nasal stuffiness or runny nose.
Common Xofluza adverse effects for children aged 5–12 could be:
- Vomiting;
This isn't a complete list of all the side effects. Others could happen. Contact your doctor for advice regarding medical adverse effects. You can report any symptoms to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Interaction with other drugs
Other medications can be incompatible with baloxavir marboxil, which includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Discuss with your doctor all the other medications you are taking.
