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ANTIINFECTIVES FOR SYSTEMIC USE › ANTIVIRALS FOR SYSTEMIC USE › DIRECT ACTING ANTIVIRALS › Neuraminidase inhibitors
zanamivir
J05AH01
Forms & Strengths
- Inhalation powder: 5 mg per blister (Rotadisk for Diskhaler device)
Adult Dosing
- Treatment of influenza: 10 mg (two 5-mg blisters) inhaled twice daily for 5 days
- Prophylaxis of influenza: 10 mg (two 5-mg blisters) inhaled once daily for 10 days (household setting) or up to 28 days (community outbreak)
Pediatric Dosing
- Treatment (children 7 years and older): 10 mg (two 5-mg blisters) inhaled twice daily for 5 days
- Prophylaxis (children 5 years and older): 10 mg (two 5-mg blisters) inhaled once daily for 10 days
Indications
- Treatment of acute uncomplicated influenza A and B in patients aged 7 years and older who have been symptomatic for no more than 2 days
- Prophylaxis of influenza A and B in patients aged 5 years and older
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits influenza virus neuraminidase enzyme, preventing the release of viral particles from infected host cells and halting viral spread
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to zanamivir or any component of the formulation
Adverse Reactions
- Bronchospasm and severe decline in lung function (in patients with underlying asthma or COPD)
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nasal and sinus symptoms
- Nausea
- Neuropsychiatric events (hallucinations, delirium, abnormal behavior)
Drug Interactions
- Live attenuated influenza vaccine (intranasal): Antiviral drugs may inhibit replication of live vaccine virus; avoid administration within 2 weeks before or 48 hours after vaccination unless medically indicated
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use