Oseltamivir

Antiviral (flu)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Oseltamivir is a antiviral (flu) found in 2 medicines sold in India, such as Fluvir 75, Tamiflu 75. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Treats and helps prevent influenza (flu), including H1N1.

How it works

An antiviral (Tamiflu) that stops flu viruses spreading in the body; shortens illness if started within 48 hours.

How to take it

Usually 75 mg twice a day for 5 days with food; once daily for 10 days for prevention.

Common side effects

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Headache

Get medical help straight away if

  • Confusion, unusual behaviour (mainly in children and teens)
  • Severe rash

Be careful

Works best if started within 2 days of symptoms; can cause nausea.

Other medicines and interactions

Do not take with the nasal live flu vaccine (2 weeks either side).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Recommended in pregnancy and while breastfeeding when flu is suspected; pregnant women are at higher risk from flu.

Brands of Oseltamivir (2)

Fluvir 75Tamiflu 75

Common questions

What is Oseltamivir used for?

Treats and helps prevent influenza (flu), including H1N1.

How does Oseltamivir work?

An antiviral (Tamiflu) that stops flu viruses spreading in the body; shortens illness if started within 48 hours.

How should I take Oseltamivir?

Usually 75 mg twice a day for 5 days with food; once daily for 10 days for prevention.

What are the side effects of Oseltamivir?

Common: Nausea, vomiting, headache. Get help straight away for: Confusion, unusual behaviour (mainly in children and teens), severe rash.

Does Oseltamivir interact with other medicines?

Do not take with the nasal live flu vaccine (2 weeks either side).

Is Oseltamivir safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Recommended in pregnancy and while breastfeeding when flu is suspected; pregnant women are at higher risk from flu.

Does Oseltamivir need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Oseltamivir?

Fluvir 75, Tamiflu 75.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.