Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) capsules and oral suspension
HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
--------------------- DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS ---------------------
These highlights do not include all the information needed to use
• Capsules: 30 mg, 45 mg, 75 mg (
TAMIFLU safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for
• Powder for oral suspension: 360 mg oseltamivir base (constituted to a final
TAMIFLU.
concentration of 6 mg/mL) (
TAMIFLU® (oseltamivir phosphate) capsules
TAMIFLU® (oseltamivir phosphate) for oral suspension
Patients with known serious hypersensitivity to oseltamivir or any of the
Initial U.S. Approval: 1999
components of TAMIFLU )
----------------------- WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS -----------------------
Dosage and Administra,
• Serious skin/hypersensitivity reactions: Discontinue TAMIFLU and
initiate appropriate treatment if allergic-like reactions occur or are
TAMIFLU is an influenza neuraminidase inhibitor indicated for:
• Neuropsychiatric events: Patients with influenza, including those receiving
• Treatment of influenza in patients 1 year and older who have been
TAMIFLU, particularly pediatric patients, may be at an increased risk of
symptomatic for no more than 2 days
confusion or abnormal behavior early in their illness. Monitor for signs of
• Prophylaxis of influenza in patients 1 year and older.
abnormal behavior.)
Important Limitations of Use:
• Efficacy not established in patients who begin therapy after 48 hours of
Most common adverse reactions (>1% and more common than with placebo):
• Not a substitute fo)
• Treatment studies – Nausea, vomitin
• No evidence of efficacy for illness from agents other than influenza viruses
• Prophylaxis studies – Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdomin)
types A and B.
• Consider available information on influenza drug susceptibility patterns
To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Genentech at
and treatment effects when deciding whether to use. )
1-888-835-2555 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch
Treatment of influenza (
Live attenuated influenza vaccine, intr):
• Adults and adolescents (13 years and older): 75 mg twice daily for 5 days
• Do not administer until 48 hours following cessation of TAMIFLU.
• Pediatric patients (1 year and older): Based on weight twice daily for
• Do not administer TAMIFLU until 2 weeks following administration of
the live attenuated influenza vaccine, unless medically indicated.
• Renally impaired patients (creatinine clearance 10-30 mL/min): Reduce to
75 mg once daily for 5 days )
----------------------- USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS -----------------------
Prophylaxis of influenza (
• Pregnancy: No data in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed.)
• Adults and adolescents (13 years and older): 75 mg once daily for at least
• Nursing mothers: Caution should be exercised when administered to a
- Community outbreak: 75 mg once daily for up to 6 weeks
• Pediatric use: Safety and efficacy not established in patients less than 1
• Pediatric patients (1 year and older): Based on weight once daily for
10 days - Community outbreak: Based on weight once daily for up to 6 weeks
for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION and FDA-
• Renally impaired patients (creatinine clearance 10-30 mL/min): Reduce to
approved patient labeling
75 mg once every other day or 30 mg once daily (
Revised: 03/2011
Reference ID: 2921316
FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION: CONTENTS*
8 .
USE IN SPECIF C
1 .
INDICATIONS AND USAGE
1.1 Treatment of Influenza
8.3 Nursing Mothers
1.2 Prophylaxis of Infl enza
8.4 Pediatric Use
1.3 Limitations of Use
8.5 Geriatric Use
2 .
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
8.6 Renal Impairment
2.1 Dosing for Treatment and Prophylaxis of I fluenza
8.7 Hepatic Im air
2.2 Standard Dosage – Treatment of Influenza
10 .
OVERDOSAGE
2.3 Standard Dosage – Prophylaxis of Influenza
11 .
DESCRIPTION
2.4 Renal Impairment
12 .
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
2.5 Hepatic Impairm nt
12.1 Mechanism of Ac i
2.6 Geriatric Patients
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
2.7 Preparation of TAMIFLU for Oral Suspension
12.4 Microbiology
2.8 Emergency Compounding of an Oral Suspension from 75 mg
13 .
NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
TAMIFLU Capsules (Final Concentration 6 mg/mL)
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
3 .
DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
13.2 Animal Toxicolo y
g and/or Pharmacology
4 .
CONTRAINDICATIONS
14 .
CLINICAL STUDIES
5 .
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
14.1 Treatment of Influenza
5.1 Serious Skin/Hypersensitivity Reactions
14.2 Prophylaxis of Influenza
5.2 Neuropsychiatric E ents
16 .
HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
5.3 Bacterial Infections
17 .
PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
5.4 Limitations of Populations Studied
17.1 Information for Patients
6 .
ADVERSE REACTIONS
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience
*Sections or subsections omitted from the full prescribing information are not
6.2 Postmarketing Experience
7 .
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Reference ID: 2921316
FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
1 INDICATIONS
Treatment of Influenza
TAMIFLU is indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated acute illness due to influenza infection in patients
1 year and older who have been symptomatic for no more than 2 days.
Prophylaxis of Influenza
TAMIFLU is indicated for the prophylaxis of influenza in patients 1 year and older.
Limitations of Use
The following points should be considered before initiating treatment or prophylaxis with TAMIFLU:
• Efficacy of TAMIFLU in patients who begin treatment after 48 hours of symptoms has not been established.
• TAMIFLU is not a substitute for early influenza vaccination on an annual basis as recommended by the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.
• There is no evidence for efficacy of TAMIFLU in any illness caused by agents other than influenza viruses
• Influenza viruses change over time. Emergence of resistance mutations could decrease drug effectiveness.
Other factors (for example, changes in viral virulence) might also diminish clinical benefit of antiviral
drugs. Prescribers should consider available information on influenza drug susceptibility patterns and
treatment effects when deciding whether to use TAMIFLU.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
Dosing for Treatment and Prophylaxis of Influenza
TAMIFLU may be taken with or without food
[see Clinical Pharmacology ()]. However, when taken with
food, tolerability may be enhanced in some patients.
The recommended oral treatment and prophylaxis dose of TAMIFLU for patients 1 year of age and older is
Treatment and Prophylaxis Dosing of Oral TAMIFLU for Influenza
For Patients 1 Year of Age and Older Based on Body Weight
Treatment
Prophylaxis
Volume of
Number of
Number of
Oral Suspension
Bottles of Oral
Capsules and
for 5 days
for 10 days
(6 mg/mL) for each Suspension to
Strength to
Dispense
Dispense
30 mg
twice daily 30 mg
once daily
45 mg
twice daily 45 mg
once daily
60 mg
twice daily 60 mg
once daily
41 kg or more 89 lbs or more 75 mg
twice daily 75 mg
once daily
* A 10 mL oral dosing dispenser is provided with the oral suspension. In the event that the dispenser provided is lost or damaged,
another dosing dispenser may be used to deliver the volumes.
†Delivery of this TAMIFLU for Oral Suspension dose requires administering 10 mL followed by another 2.5 mL.
Reference ID: 2921316
Standard Dosage – Treatment of Influenza
Adults and Adolescents
The recommended oral dose of TAMIFLU for treatment of influenza in adults and adolescents 13 years and
older is 75 mg twice daily for 5 days. Treatment should begin within 2 days of onset of symptoms of influenza.
TAMIFLU for oral suspension may be used by patients who cannot sw
Pediatric Patients
TAMIFLU is not indicated for treatment of influenza in pediatric patients younger than 1 year.
The recommended oral dose of TAMIFLU for pediatric patients 1
pediatric patients who cannot swallow capsules, TAMIFLU for oral suspension is the preferred formulation. If
the oral suspension product is not available, TAMIFLU capsules may be opened and mixed with sweetened
liquids such as regular or sugar-free chocolate syrup, corn syrup, caramel topping, or light brown sugar
(dissolved in water). If the appropriate strengths of TAMIFLU capsules are not available to mix with sweetened
liquids and the oral suspension product is not available, then a pharmacist may compound an emergency supply
of oral suspension from TAMIFLU 75 mg capsules
[see Dosage and Administration ()].
Standard Dosage – Prophylaxis of Influenza
Adults and Adolescents
The recommended oral dose of TAMIFLU for prophylaxis of influenza in adults and adolescents 13 years and
older following close contact with an infected individual is 75 mg once daily for at least 10 days. Therapy
should begin within 2 days of exposure. The recommended dose for prophylaxis during a community outbreak
of influenza is 75 mg once daily. Safety and efficacy have been demonstrated for up to 6 weeks in
immunocompetent patients. The duration of protection lasts for as long as dosing is continued. Safety has been
demonstrated for up to 12 weeks in immunocompromised patients. TAMIFLU for oral suspension may also be
Pediatric Patients
The safety and efficacy of TAMIFLU for prophylaxis of influenza in pediatric patients younger than 1 year of
age have not been established.
The recommended oral dose of TAMIFLU for pediatric patients 1 year and older following close contact with
an infected indivi swallow capsules, TAMIFLU for
oral suspension is the preferred formulation. If the oral suspension product is not available, TAMIFLU capsules
may be opened and mixed with sweetened liquids such as regular or sugar-free chocolate syrup, corn syrup,
caramel topping, or light brown sugar (dissolved in water). If the appropriate strengths of TAMIFLU capsules
are not available to mix with sweetened liquids and the oral suspension product is not available, then a
pharmacist may compound an emergency supply of oral suspension from TAMIFLU 75 mg capsules
[see
Prophylaxis in pediatric patients following close contact with an infected individual is recommended for
10 days. Therapy should begin within 2 days of exposure. For prophylaxis in pediatric patients during a
community outbreak of influenza, dosing may be continued for up to 6 weeks.
2.4 Renal
Impairment
Data are available on plasma concentrations of oseltamivir carboxylate following various dosing schedules in
patients with renal impairment
)].
Treatment of Influenza
Dose adjustment is recommended for adult patients with creatinine clearance between 10 and 30 mL/min
receiving TAMIFLU for the treatment of influenza. In these patients it is recommended that the dose be reduced
Reference ID: 2921316
to 75 mg of TAMIFLU once daily for 5 days. No recommended dosing regimens are available for patients with
end-stage renal disease undergoing routine hemodialysis or continuous peritoneal dialysis treatment.
Prophylaxis of Influenza
For the prophylaxis of influenza, dose adjustment is recommended for adult patients with creatinine clearance
between 10 and 30 mL/min receiving TAMIFLU. In these patients it is recommended that the dose be reduced
to 75 mg of TAMIFLU every other day or 30 mg TAMIFLU every day. No recommended dosing regimens are
available for patients undergoing routine hemodialysis and continuous peritoneal dialysis treatment with end-
stage renal disease.
Hepatic Impairment
No dose adjustment is recommended for patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score
≤9)
[see Clinical Pharmacology ()].
2.6 Geriatric
Patients
No dose adjustment is required for geriatric patients
[see Use in Specific Popu) and Clinical
Preparation of TAMIFLU for Oral Suspension
It is recommended that TAMIFLU for oral suspension be constituted by the pharmacist prior to dispensing to
a) Tap the closed bottle several times to loosen the powder.
b) Measure
55 mL of water in a graduated cylinder.
c) Add the total amount of water for constitution to the bottle and shake the closed bottle well for 15 seconds.
d) Remove the child-resistant cap and push bottle adapter into the neck of the bottle.
e) Close bottle with child-resistant cap tightly. This will assure the proper seating of the bottle adapter in the
bottle and child-resistant status of the cap.
Label the bottle with instructions to Shake Well before each use.
The constituted TAMIFLU for oral suspension (6 mg/mL) should be used within 17 days of preparation when
stored under refrigeration or within 10 days if stored at controlled room temperature; the pharmacist should
write the date of expiration of the constituted suspension on a pharmacy label. The patient package insert and
oral dispenser should be dispensed to the patient.
Emergency Compounding of an Oral Suspension from 75 mg TAMIFLU Capsules (Final
Concentration 6 mg/mL)
The following directions are provided for use only during emergency situations. These directions are not
intended to be used if the FDA-approved, commercially manufactured TAMIFLU for oral suspension is readily
available from wholesalers or the manufacturer.
Compounding an oral suspension with this procedure will provide one patient with enough medication for a 5
day course of treatment or a 10-day course of prophylaxis.
Commercially manufactured TAMIFLU for oral suspension (6 mg/mL) is the preferred product for pediatric and
adult patients who have difficulty swallowing capsules or where lower doses are needed. In the event that
TAMIFLU for oral suspension is not available, the pharmacist may compound a suspension (6 mg/mL) from
TAMIFLU capsules 75 mg using one of these vehicles: Cherry Syrup (Humco ), Ora-Sweet SF (sugar-free)
(Paddock Laboratories), or simple syrup. Other vehicles have not been studied.
This compounded suspension
Reference ID: 2921316
should not be used for convenience or when the FDA-approved TAMIFLU for oral suspension is
commercially available.
First, calculate the total volume of an oral suspension needed to be compounded and dispensed for each patient.
The total volume required is determined
Volume of an Oral Suspension (6 mg/mL) Needed to be Compounded Based Upon the
Patient's Body Weight
Weight (kg)
Weight (lbs)
Total Volume to Compound
per Patient (mL)
41 kg or more 89 lbs or more
Second, determine the number of capsules and the amount of water and vehicle (Cherry Syrup, Ora-Sweet SF,
or simple syrup) that are needed to prepare the total volume (determimL, 100 mL,
125 mL, or 150 mL) of compounded oral suspension (6 m
Number of TAMIFLU 75 mg Capsules and Amount of Vehicle (Cherry Syrup,
Ora-Sweet SF, or Simple Syrup) Needed to Prepare the Total Volume of a
Compounded Oral Suspension (6 mg/mL)
Total Volume of Compounded
Oral Suspension to be Prepared
Number of TAMIFLU 75 mg
Capsules*
Amount of Water
Volume of Vehicle
Cherry Syrup (Humco )
OR
Ora-Sweet SF (Paddock
Laboratories)
OR simple syrup
*Includes overage to ensure all doses can be delivered
Third, follow the procedure below for compounding the oral suspension (6 mg/mL) from TAMIFLU capsules
1. Place the specified amount of water into a polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) or glass bottle (see ).
2. Carefully separate the capsule body and cap and pour the contents of the required number of TAMIFLU
75 mg capsules into the PET or glass bottle.
3. Gently swirl the suspension to ensure adequate wetting of the TAMIFLU powder for at least 2 minutes.
4. Slowly add the specified amount of vehicle to the bottle.
5. Close the bottle using a child-resistant cap and shake well for 30 seconds to completely dissolve the active
drug and to ensure homogeneous distribution of the dissolved drug in the resulting suspension. (Note: The
Reference ID: 2921316
active drug, oseltamivir phosphate, readily dissolves in the specified vehicles. The suspension is caused by
inert ingredients of TAMIFLU capsules which are insoluble in these vehicles.)
6. Put an ancillary label on the bottle indicating "Shake Well Before Use."
7. Instruct the parent or caregiver that any unused suspension remaining in the bottle following completion of
therapy must be discarded by either affixing an ancillary label to the bottle or adding a statement to the
pharmacy label instructions.
8. Place an appropriate expiration date on the label according to storage conditions below.
Storage of the Emergency Compounded Suspension
• Refrigeration: Stable for 5 weeks (35 days) when stored in a refrigerator at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F).
• Room Temperature: Stable for five days (5 days) when stored at room temperature, 25°C (77°F).
Note: The storage conditions are based on stability studies of compounded oral suspensions, using the above
mentioned vehicles, which were placed in glass and polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) bottles. Stability studies
have not been conducted with other vehicles or bottle types.
Place a pharmacy label on the bottle that includes the patient's name, dosing instructions, and drug name and
any other required information to be in compliance with all State and Federal Pharmacy Regulations.
Dosing of the Compounded Suspension (6 mg/mL)
DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
Capsules: 30 mg, 45 mg, 75 mg
• 30-mg capsules (30 mg free base equivalent of the phosphate salt): light yellow hard gelatin capsules.
"ROCHE" is printed in blue ink on the light yellow body and "30 mg" is printed in blue ink on the light
• 45-mg capsules (45 mg free base equivalent of the phosphate salt): grey hard gelatin capsules. "ROCHE" is
printed in blue ink on the grey body and "45 mg" is printed in blue ink on the grey cap.
• 75-mg capsules (75 mg free base equivalent of the phosphate salt): grey/light yellow hard gelatin capsules.
"ROCHE" is printed in blue ink on the grey body and "75 mg" is printed in blue ink on the light yellow cap.
For Oral Suspension: 6 mg/mL (final concentration when constituted)
• White powder blend for constitution to a white tutti-frutti–flavored suspension. After constitution, each
bottle delivers a usable volume of 60 mL of oral suspension equivalent to 360 mg oseltamivir base
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS
TAMIFLU is contraindicated in patients with known serious hypersensitivity to oseltamivir or any component
of the product. Severe allergic reactions have included anaphylaxis and serious skin reactions including toxic
epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, and erythema multiforme
[see Warnings and Precautions
()].
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
Serious Skin/Hypersensitivity Reactions
Cases of anaphylaxis and serious skin reactions including toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson
Syndrome, and erythema multiforme have been reported in postmarketing experience with TAMIFLU.
TAMIFLU should be stopped and appropriate treatment instituted if an allergic-like reaction occurs or is
suspected. Reference ID: 2921316
5.2 Neuropsychiatric
Influenza can be associated with a variety of neurologic and behavioral symptoms that can include events such
as hallucinations, delirium, and abnormal behavior, in some cases resulting in fatal outcomes. These events may
occur in the setting of encephalitis or encephalopathy but can occur without obvious severe disease.
There have been postmarketing reports (mostly from Japan) of delirium and abnormal behavior leading to
injury, and in some cases resulting in fatal outcomes, in patients with influenza who were receiving TAMIFLU.
Because these events were reported voluntarily during clinical practice, estimates of frequency cannot be made
but they appear to be uncommon based on TAMIFLU usage data. These events were reported primarily among
pediatric patients and often had an abrupt onset and rapid resolution. The contribution of TAMIFLU to these
events has not been established. Closely monitor patients with influenza for signs of abnormal behavior. If
neuropsychiatric symptoms occur, evaluate the risks and benefits of continuing treatment for each patient.
5.3 Bacterial
Infections
Serious bacterial infections may begin with influenza-like symptoms or may coexist with or occur as
complications during the course of influenza. TAMIFLU has not been shown to prevent such complications.
Limitations of Populations Studied
Efficacy of TAMIFLU in the treatment of influenza in patients with chronic cardiac disease and/or respiratory
disease has not been established. No difference in the incidence of complications was observed between the
treatment and placebo groups in this population. No information is available regarding treatment of influenza in
patients with any medical condition sufficiently severe or unstable to be considered at imminent risk of
requiring hospitalization.
Efficacy of TAMIFLU for treatment or prophylaxis of influenza has not been established in
immunocompromised patients.
6 ADVERSE
REACTIONS
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed below and elsewhere in the labeling:
• Serious skin and hypersensitivity reactions
• Neuropsychiatric events
[see Warnings and Precautions ()]
The most common adverse reactions are nausea and vomiting.
Clinical Trials Experience
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the
clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not
reflect the rates observed in practice.
Treatment Studies in Adult Subjects
A total of 1171 subjects who participated in adult controlled clinical trials for the treatment of influenza were
treated with TAMIFLU. The most frequently reported adverse events in these studies were nausea and
vomiting. These events were generally of mild to moderate severity and usually occurred on the first 2 days of
administration. Less than 1% of subjects discontinued prematurely from clinical trials due to nausea and
Adverse events that occurred with an incidence of ≥1% in 1440 subjects taking placebo or TAMIFLU 75 mg
twice daily in adult treatmeary includes 945 healthy young adults
and 495 "at risk" subjects (elderly patients and patients with chronic cardiac or respiratory disease). Those
events reported numerically more frequently in subjects taking TAMIFLU compared with placebo were nausea,
vomiting, bronchitis, insomnia, and vertigo.
Reference ID: 2921316
Prophylaxis Studies in Adult Subjects
A total of 4187 subjects (adolescents, healthy adults, and elderly) participated in prophylaxis studies, of whom
1790 received the recommended dose of 75 mg once daily for up to 6 weeks. Adverse events were qualitatively
very similar to those seen in the treatment st
reported more frequently in subjects receiving TAMIFLU compared to subjects receiving placebo in
prophylaxis studies, and more commonly than in treatment studies, were aches and pains, rhinorrhea, dyspepsia
and upper respiratory tract infections. However, the difference in incidence between TAMIFLU and placebo for
these events was less than 1%. There were no clinically relevant differences in the safety profile of the 942
elderly subjects who received TAMIFLU or placebo, compared with the younger population.
Most Frequent Adverse Events in Studies in Naturally Acquired
Influenza in Subjects 13 Years of Age and Older
Treatment
Prophylaxis
Placebo/
75 mg twice
75 mg once
Adverse Eventa
Nausea (without vomiting)
25 (3%) 15 (2%) 21 (1%) 24 (1%)
14 (2%) 13 (2%) 306
4 (1%) 7 (1%) 4 (<1%)
a Adverse events included are all events reported in the treatment studies with frequency ≥1% in the TAMIFLU 75 mg twice daily
b The majority of subjects received placebo; 254 subjects from a randomized, open-label postexposure prophylaxis study in
households did not receive placebo or prophylaxis therapy.
Additional adverse events occurring in <1% of patients receiving TAMIFLU for treatment included unstable
angina, anemia, pseudomembranous colitis, humerus fracture, pneumonia, pyrexia, and peritonsillar abscess.
Treatment Studies in Pediatric Subjects
A total of 1032 pediatric subjects aged 1 to 12 years (including 698 otherwise healthy pediatric subjects aged 1
to 12 years and 334 asthmatic pediatric subjects aged 6 to 12 years) participated in controlled clinical trials of
TAMIFLU given for the treatment of influenza. A total of 515 pediatric subjects received treatment with
TAMIFLU for oral suspension.
Adverse events occurring in ≥1% of pediatric subjects receiving TAMIFLU treatme
most frequently reported adverse event was vomiting. Other events reported more frequently by pediatric
subjects treated with TAMIFLU included abdominal pain, epistaxis, ear disorder, and conjunctivitis. These
events generally occurred once and resolved despite continued dosing resulting in discontinuation of drug in 8
out of 515 (2%) cases.
The adverse event profile in adolescents is similar to that described for adult subjects and pediatric subjects
aged 1 to 12 years.
Reference ID: 2921316
Prophylaxis Studies in Pediatric Subjects
Pediatric subjects aged 1 to 12 years participated in a postexposure prophylaxis study in households, both as
index cases (n=134) and as contacts (n=222). Gastrointestinal events were the most frequent, particularly
vomiting. In a separate 6-week, uncontrolled, pediatric seasonal prophylaxis study (n=49), the adverse events
Most Frequent Adverse Events Occurring in Children Aged
1 to 12 Years in Studies in Naturally Acquired Influenza
Treatment
Household Prophylaxis Trialc
Prophylaxis
2 mg/kg twice
Adverse Eventa
once dailyd
55 (11%) 49 (10%) -
58 (11%) 45 (9%) 2 (2%) 2 (2%)
20 (4%) 24 (5%) -
Asthma (including
19 (4%) 18 (3%) 1 (1%) 1 (1%)
aggravated) Nausea
22 (4%) 17 (3%) 1 (1%) 4 (4%)
13 (3%) 16 (3%) -
17 (3%) 10 (2%) 2 (2%) -
11 (2%) 8 (2%) 2 (2%) -
Conjunctivitis 2
Tympanic membrane
Adverse events included ievents reported in the treatment studies with frequency ≥1% in the TAMIFLU 75 mg
twice daily group.
b Pooled data from trials of TAMIFLU treatment of naturally acquired influenza.
c A randomized, open-label study of household transmission in which household contacts received either prophylaxis or no
prophylaxis but treatment if they became ill. Only contacts who received prophylaxis or who remained on no prophylaxis are
included in this table.
d Unit dose = age-based dosing of 30 mg, 45 mg, or 60 mg
Prophylaxis Study in Immunocompromised Subjects
In a 12-week seasonal prophylaxis study in 475 immunocompromised subjects, including 18 pediatric subjects
1 to 12 years of age, the safety profile in the 238 subjects receiving TAMIFLU was consistent with that
previously observed in other TAMIFLU prophylaxis clinical trials.
Postmarketing Experience
The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of TAMIFLU. Because these
reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not possible to reliably estimate their
frequency or establish a causal relationship to TAMIFLU exposure.
Body as a Whole: Swelling of the face or tongue, allergy, anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions, hypothermia
Reference ID: 2921316
Dermatologic: Rash, dermatitis, urticaria, eczema, toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome,
erythema multiforme
[s
Digestive: Hepatitis, liver function tests abnormal
Cardiac: Arrhythmia
Gastrointestinal disorders: Gastrointestinal bleeding, hemorrhagic colitis
Neurologic: Seizure
Metabolic: Aggravation of diabetes
Psychiatric: Abnormal behavior, delirium, including symptoms such as hallucinations, agitation, anxiety, altered
level of consciousness, confusion, nightmares, delusions
)]
Influenza Vaccines
The concurrent use of TAMIFLU with live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) intranasal has not been
evaluated. However, because of the potential for interference between these products, LAIV should not be
administered within 2 weeks before or 48 hours after administration of TAMIFLU, unless medically indicated.
The concern about possible interference arises from the potential for antiviral drugs to inhibit replication of live
vaccine virus. Trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine can be administered at any time relative to use of
Overall Drug Interaction Profile for Oseltamivir
Information derived from pharmacology and pharmacokinetic studies of oseltamivir suggests that clinically
significant drug interactions are unlikely.
Oseltamivir is extensively converted to oseltamivir carboxylate by esterases, located predominantly in the liver.
Drug interactions involving competition for esterases have not been extensively reported in literature. Low
protein binding of oseltamivir and oseltamivir carboxylate suggests that the probability of drug displacement
interactions is low.
In vitro studies demonstrate that neither oseltamivir nor oseltamivir carboxylate is a good substrate for P450
mixed-function oxidases or for glucuronyl transferases.
Clinically important drug interactions involving competition for renal tubular secretion are unlikely due to the
known safety margin for most of these drugs, the elimination characteristics of oseltamivir carboxylate
(glomerular filtration and anionic tubular secretion) and the excretion capacity of these pathways.
Coadministration of probenecid results in an approximate two-fold increase in exposure to oseltamivir
carboxylate due to a decrease in active anionic tubular secretion in the kidney. However, due to the safety
margin of oseltamivir carboxylate, no dose adjustments are required when coadministering with probenecid.
No pharmacokinetic interactions have been observed when coadministering oseltamivir with amoxicillin,
acetaminophen, aspirin, cimetidine, antacids (magnesium and aluminum hydroxides and calcium carbonates), or
USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1 Pregnancy
Pregnancy Category C
There are insufficient human data upon which to base an evaluation of risk of TAMIFLU to the pregnant
woman or developing fetus. Studies for effects on embryo-fetal development were conducted in rats (50, 250,
and 1500 mg/kg/day) and rabbits (50, 150, and 500 mg/kg/day) by the oral route. Relative exposures at these Reference ID: 2921316
doses were, respectively, 2, 13, and 100 times human exposure in the rat and 4, 8, and 50 times human exposure
in the rabbit. Pharmacokinetic studies indicated that fetal exposure was seen in both species. In the rat study,
minimal maternal toxicity was reported in the 1500 mg/kg/day group. In the rabbit study, slight and marked
maternal toxicities were observed, respectively, in the 150 and 500 mg/kg/day groups. There was a dose
dependent increase in the incidence rates of a variety of minor skeletal abnormalities and variants in the
exposed offspring in these studies. However, the individual incidence rate of each skeletal abnormality or
variant remained within the background rates of occurrence in the species studied.
Because animal reproductive studies may not be predictive of human response and there are no adequate and
well-controlled studies in pregnant women, TAMIFLU should be used during pregnancy only if the potential
benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
8.3 Nursing
In lactating rats, oseltamivir and oseltamivir carboxylate are excreted in the milk. It is not known whether
oseltamivir or oseltamivir carboxylate is excreted in human milk. TAMIFLU should, therefore, be used only if
the potential benefit for the lactating mother justifies the potential risk to the breast-fed infant.
8.4 Pediatric
The safety and efficacy of TAMIFLU in pediatric patients younger than 1 year of age have not been studied.
TAMIFLU is not indicated for either treatment or prophylaxis of influenza in pediatric patients younger than
1 year of age because of the unknown clinical significance of nonclinical animal toxicology data for human
infants
)].
8.5 Geriatric
Of the total number of subjects in clinical studies of TAMIFLU for the treatment of influenza, 19% were 65 and
over, while 7% were 75 and over. Of the total number of patients in clinical studies of TAMIFLU for the
prophylaxis of influenza, 25% were 65 and over, while 18% were 75 and over. No overall differences in safety
or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and other reported clinical
experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger subjects.
The safety of TAMIFLU in geriatric subjects has been established in clinical studies that enrolled 741 subjects
(374 received placebo and 362 received TAMIFLU). Some seasonal variability was noted in the clinical
efficacy outcomes
[see Clinical Stud.
Safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in elderly residents of nursing homes who took TAMIFLU for up
to 42 days for the prevention of influenza. Many of these individuals had cardiac and/or respiratory disease, and
most had received vaccine that season .
8.6 Renal
Impairment
Dose adjustment is recommended for patients with a serum creatinine clearance between 10 and 30 mL/min
[see Dosage and Administration (. No recommended dosing regimens
are available for patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing routine hemodialysis or continuous peritoneal
dialysis treatment.
8.7 Hepatic
Impairment
No dosage adjustment is required in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. The safety and
pharmacokinetics in patients with severe hepatic impairment have not been evaluated
[see Dosage and
) and Clinical Pharmacology ()].
10 OVERDOSAGE
At present, there has been no experience with overdose. Single doses of up to 1000 mg of TAMIFLU have been
associated with nausea and/or vomiting.
Reference ID: 2921316
11 DESCRIPTION
TAMIFLU (oseltamivir phosphate) is available as capsules containing 30 mg, 45 mg, or 75 mg oseltamivir for
oral use, in the form of oseltamivir phosphate, and as a powder for oral suspension, which when constituted
with water as directed contains 6 mg/mL oseltamivir base. In addition to the active ingredient, each capsule
contains pregelatinized starch, talc, povidone K30, croscarmellose sodium, and sodium stearyl fumarate. The
30 mg capsule shell contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, yellow iron oxide, and red iron oxide. The 45 mg capsule
shell contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, and black iron oxide. The 75 mg capsule shell contains gelatin, titanium
dioxide, yellow iron oxide, black iron oxide, and red iron oxide. Each capsule is printed with blue ink, which
includes FD&C Blue No. 2 as the colorant. In addition to the active ingredient, the powder for oral suspension
contains sorbitol, monosodium citrate, xanthan gum, titanium dioxide, tutti-frutti flavoring, sodium benzoate,
and saccharin sodium.
Oseltamivir phosphate is a white crystalline solid with the chemical name (3R,4R,5S)-4-acetylamino-5-amino
3(1-ethylpropoxy)-1-cyclohexene-1-carboxylic acid, ethyl ester, phosphate (1:1). The chemical formula is
C16H28N2O4 (free base). The molecular weight is 312.4 for oseltamivir free base and 410.4 for oseltamivir
phosphate salt. The structural formula is as follows:
12 CLINICAL
PHARMACOLOGY
Mechanism of Action
Oseltamivir is an antiviral drug
[see Clinical Pharmacology ()].
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
Absorption and Bioavailability
Oseltamivir is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration of oseltamivir phosphate
and is extensively converted predominantly by hepatic esterases to oseltamivir carboxylate. At least 75% of an
oral dose reaches the systemic circulation as oseltamivir carboxylate. Exposure to oseltamivir is less than 5% of
the total exposure after oral dosing (s
Mean (% CV) Pharmacokinetic Parameters of Oseltamivir and
Oseltamivir Carboxylate Following Multiple Dosing of 75 mg Capsules
Twice Daily (n=20)
Oseltamivir
Parameter Oseltamivir
Carboxylate
Plasma concentrations of oseltamivir carboxylate are proportional to doses up to 500 mg given twice daily.
Coadministration with food has no significant effect on the peak plasma concentration (551 ng/mL under fasted
conditions and 441 ng/mL under fed conditions) and the area under the plasma concentration time curve (6218
ng·h/mL under fasted conditions and 6069 ng·h/mL under fed conditions) of oseltamivir carboxylate.
Reference ID: 2921316
The volume of distribution (Vss) of oseltamivir carboxylate, following intravenous administration in 24 subjects,
ranged between 23 and 26 liters.
The binding of oseltamivir carboxylate to human plasma protein is low (3%). The binding of oseltamivir to
human plasma protein is 42%, which is insufficient to cause significant displacement-based drug interactions.
Oseltamivir is extensively converted to oseltamivir carboxylate by esterases located predominantly in the liver.
Neither oseltamivir nor oseltamivir carboxylate is a substrate for, or inhibitor of, cytochrome P450 isoforms.
Absorbed oseltamivir is primarily (>90%) eliminated by conversion to oseltamivir carboxylate. Plasma
concentrations of oseltamivir declined with a half-life of 1 to 3 hours in most subjects after oral administration.
Oseltamivir carboxylate is not further metabolized and is eliminated in the urine. Plasma concentrations of
oseltamivir carboxylate declined with a half-life of 6 to 10 hours in most subjects after oral administration.
Oseltamivir carboxylate is eliminated entirely (>99%) by renal excretion. Renal clearance (18.8 L/h) exceeds
glomerular filtration rate (7.5 L/h), indicating that tubular secretion occurs in addition to glomerular filtration.
Less than 20% of an oral radiolabeled dose is eliminated in feces.
Special Populations
Renal Impairment
Administration of 100 mg of oseltamivir phosphate twice daily for 5 days to patients with various degrees of
renal impairment showed that exposure to oseltamivir carboxylate is inversely proportional to declining renal
function. Oseltamivir carboxylate exposures in patients with normal and impaired renal function administered
various dose regimens of oseltamivir are described in .
Oseltamivir Carboxylate Exposures in Patients With Normal and
Reduced Serum Creatinine Clearance
Parameter Normal
Function
Impaired Renal Function
Creatinine Clearance
Creatinine Clearance
>10 and <30 mL/min
CAPD Hemodialysis
259* 348* 705* 766
AUC48† 7476* 10876* 21864* 17381
62636 21999 25054
*Observed values. All other values are predicted.
†AUC normalized to 48 hours.
Hepatic Impairment
In clinical studies oseltamivir carboxylate exposure was not altered in patients with mild or moderate hepatic
impairment
)].
Pediatric Patients
The pharmacokinetics of oseltamivir and oseltamivir carboxylate have been evaluated in a single-dose
pharmacokinetic study in pediatric patients aged 5 to 16 years (n=18) and in a small number of pediatric
patients aged 3 to 12 years (n=5) enrolled in a clinical trial. Younger pediatric patients cleared both the prodrug
and the active metabolite faster than adult patients resulting in a lower exposure for a given mg/kg dose. For
oseltamivir carboxylate, apparent total clearance decreases linearly with increasing age (up to 12 years). The
pharmacokinetics of oseltamivir in pediatric patients over 12 years of age are similar to those in adult patients.
Reference ID: 2921316
Geriatric Patients
Exposure to oseltamivir carboxylate at steady-state was 25% to 35% higher in geriatric patients (age range 65 to
78 years) compared to young adults given comparable doses of oseltamivir. Half-lives observed in the geriatric
patients were similar to those seen in young adults. Based on drug exposure and tolerability, dose adjustments
are not required for geriatric patients for either treatment or prophylaxis .
12.4 Microbiology
Mechanism of Action
Oseltamivir phosphate is an ethyl ester prodrug requiring ester hydrolysis for conversion to the active form,
oseltamivir carboxylate. Oseltamivir carboxylate is an inhibitor of influenza virus neuraminidase affecting
release of viral particles.
Antiviral Activity
The antiviral activity and neuraminidase inhibitory activity of oseltamivir carboxylate against laboratory strains
and clinical isolates of influenza virus was determined in cell culture and biochemical assays. The
concentrations of oseltamivir carboxylate required for inhibition of influenza virus in cell culture were highly
variable depending on the assay method used and the virus tested. The 50% and 90% effective concentrations
(EC50 and EC90) were in the range of 0.0008 μM to >35 μM and 0.004 μM to >100 μM, respectively (1
μM=0.284 μg/mL). The median IC50 values of oseltamivir against influenza A/H1N1, influenza A/H3N2, and
influenza B clinical isolates were 2.5 nM (range 0.93-4.16 nM, N=74), 0.96 nM (range 0.13-7.95 nM, N=774),
and 60 nM (20-285 nM, N=256), respectively, in a neuraminidase assay with a fluorescently labeled MUNANA
substrate. The relationship between the antiviral activity in cell culture, inhibitory activity in the neuraminidase
assay, and the inhibition of influenza virus replication in humans has not been established.
Influenza A virus isolates with reduced susceptibility to oseltamivir carboxylate have been recovered by serial
passage of virus in cell culture in the presence of increasing concentrations of oseltamivir carboxylate, from
clinical isolates collected during treatment with oseltamivir, and from viral isolates sampled during community
surveillance studies. Reduced susceptibility of influenza virus to inhibition by oseltamivir carboxylate may be
conferred by amino acid substitutions in the viral neuraminidase and/or hemagglutinin proteins. Changes in the
viral neuraminidase that have been associated with reduced susceptibility to oseltamivir carboxylate are
summarized in . Hemagglutinin substitutions associated with oseltamivir resistance include A28T and
R124M in influenza A H3N2 and H154Q in H1N9, a reassortant human/avian virus.
Reference ID: 2921316
Neuraminidase Amino Acid Substitutions Observed in Oseltamivir Treatment
Studies or Community Surveillance
Amino Acid Substitution
Influenza Type/
Sub-type
Catalytic Residues
Roche clinical trials, publication,
Framework Residues
Roche clinical trials, publication,
Roche clinical trials, publication,
SASG245-248 deletion
Roche clinical trial
a Substitutions identified by surveillance data only; population and use of TAMIFLU are unknown
Selection of influenza A viruses resistant to oseltamivir can occur at higher frequencies in children. The
incidence of oseltamivir treatment-associated resistance in pediatric treatment studies has been detected at rates
of 27% to 37% and 3% to 18% (3/11 to 7/19 and 1/34 to 9/50 post-treatment isolates, respectively) for influenza
A/H1N1 and influenza A/H3N2, respectively. The frequency of resistance selection to oseltamivir and the
prevalence of such resistant virus vary seasonally and geographically.
Circulating seasonal influenza strains expressing neuraminidase resistance-associated substitutions have been
observed in individuals who have not received oseltamivir treatment. The oseltamivir resistance-associated
substitution H275Y was found in >99% of US circulating 2008 H1N1 influenza isolates. The 2009 H1N1
influenza ("swine flu") was almost uniformly susceptible to oseltamivir. Prescribers should consider available
information from the CDC on influenza drug susceptibility patterns and treatment effects when deciding
whether to use TAMIFLU.
Cross-resistance
Cross-resistance between oseltamivir and zanamivir has been observed in neuraminidase biochemical assays.
The H275Y (N1 numbering) or N294S (N2 numbering) oseltamivir resistance-associated substitutions observed
in the N1 neuraminidase subtype, and the E119V or N294S oseltamivir resistance-associated substitutions
observed in the N2 subtype (N2 numbering), are associated with reduced susceptibility to oseltamivir but not
zanamivir. The Q136K and K150T zanamivir resistance-associated substitutions observed in N1 neuraminidase,
or the S250G zanamivir resistance-associated substitutions observed in influenza B, confer reduced
susceptibility to zanamivir but not oseltamivir. The R292K oseltamivir resistance-associated substitution
observed in N2, and the I222T, D198E/N, R371K, or G402S oseltamivir resistance-associated substitutions
observed in influenza B neuraminidase, confer reduced susceptibility to both oseltamivir and zanamivir. In
general, amino acid substitutions at neuraminidase catalytic residues confer cross-resistance to other
neuraminidase inhibitors while substitutions at framework residues may or may not confer cross-resistance.
No single amino acid substitution has been identified that could confer cross-resistance between the
neuraminidase inhibitor class (oseltamivir, zanamivir) and the M2 ion channel inhibitor class (amantadine,
rimantadine). However, a virus may carry a neuraminidase inhibitor associated substitution in neuraminidase Reference ID: 2921316
and an M2 ion channel inhibitor associated substitution in M2 and may therefore be resistant to both classes of
inhibitors. The clinical relevance of phenotypic cross-resistance evaluations has not been established.
No influenza vaccine/oseltamivir interaction study has been conducted. In studies of naturally acquired and
experimental influenza, treatment with TAMIFLU did not impair normal humoral antibody response to
13 NONCLINICAL
TOXICOLOGY
13.1 Carcinogenesis,
Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
In 2-year carcinogenicity studies in mice and rats given daily oral doses of the prodrug oseltamivir phosphate up
to 400 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg, respectively, the prodrug and the active form oseltamivir carboxylate induced no
statistically significant increases in tumors over controls. The mean maximum daily exposures to the prodrug in
mice and rats were approximately 130- and 320-fold, respectively, greater than those in humans at the proposed
clinical dose based on AUC comparisons. The respective safety margins of the exposures to the active
oseltamivir carboxylate were 15- and 50-fold.
Oseltamivir was found to be non-mutagenic in the Ames test and the human lymphocyte chromosome assay
with and without enzymatic activation and negative in the mouse micronucleus test. It was found to be positive
in a Syrian Hamster Embryo (SHE) cell transformation test. Oseltamivir carboxylate was non-mutagenic in the
Ames test and the L5178Y mouse lymphoma assay with and without enzymatic activation and negative in the
SHE cell transformation test.
In a fertility and early embryonic development study in rats, doses of oseltamivir at 50, 250, and
1500 mg/kg/day were administered to females for 2 weeks before mating, during mating and until day 6 of
pregnancy. Males were dosed for 4 weeks before mating, during mating, and for 2 weeks after mating. There
were no effects on fertility, mating performance or early embryonic development at any dose level. The highest
dose was approximately 100 times the human systemic exposure (AUC0-24h) of oseltamivir carboxylate.
Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology
Single, oral administration of ≥657 mg/kg oseltamivir resulted in toxicity, including death, in juvenile 7 day old
rats, but had no effect on adult rats. No toxicity was observed after repeated administration of up to 500 mg/kg
oseltamivir to developing juvenile rats 7 to 21 days old. This 500 mg/kg dose was approximately 280 and 14
times the human systemic exposure (AUC0-24h) of oseltamivir and oseltamivir carboxylate, respectively. Clinical
relevance of the juvenile rat study finding for young infants is unknown.
14 CLINICAL
14.1 Treatment
Influenza
Two placebo-controlled double-blind clinical trials were conducted: one in the U.S. and one outside the U.S.
Subjects were eligible for these trials if they had fever >100ºF, accompanied by at least one respiratory
symptom (cough, nasal symptoms, or sore throat) and at least one systemic symptom (myalgia, chills/sweats,
malaise, fatigue, or headache) and influenza virus was known to be circulating in the community. In addition,
all subjects enrolled in the trials were allowed to take fever-reducing medications.
Of 1355 subjects enrolled in these two trials, 849 (63%) subjects were influenza-infected (age range 18 to
65 years; median age 34 years; 52% male; 90% Caucasian; 31% smokers). Of the 849 influenza-infected
subjects, 95% were infected with influenza A, 3% with influenza B, and 2% with influenza of unknown type.
TAMIFLU was started within 40 hours of onset of symptoms. Subjects participating in the trials were required
to self-assess the influenza-associated symptoms as "none," "mild," "moderate," or "severe." Time to
improvement was calculated from the time of treatment initiation to the time when all symptoms (nasal Reference ID: 2921316
congestion, sore throat, cough, aches, fatigue, headaches, and chills/sweats) were assessed as "none" or "mild."
In both studies, at the recommended dose of TAMIFLU 75 mg twice daily for 5 days, there was a 1.3 day
reduction in the median time to improvement in influenza-infected subjects receiving TAMIFLU compared to
subjects receiving placebo. Subgroup analyses of these studies by gender showed no differences in the treatment
effect of TAMIFLU in men and women.
In the treatment of influenza, no increased efficacy was demonstrated in subjects receiving treatment of 150 mg
TAMIFLU twice daily for 5 days.
Geriatric Subjects
Three double-blind placebo-controlled treatment trials were conducted in subjects ≥65 years of age in three
consecutive seasons. The enrollment criteria were similar to that of adult trials with the exception of fever being
defined as >97.5°F. Of 741 subjects enrolled, 476 (65%) subjects were influenza-infected. Of the 476 influenza
infected subjects, 95% were infected with influenza type A and 5% with influenza type B.
In the pooled analysis, at the recommended dose of TAMIFLU 75 mg twice daily for 5 days, there was a 1-day
reduction in the median time to improvement in influenza-infected subjects receiving TAMIFLU compared to
those receiving placebo (p=NS). However, the magnitude of treatment effect varied between studies.
Pediatric Subjects
One double-blind placebo-controlled treatment trial was conducted in pediatric subjects aged 1 to 12 years
(median age 5 years), who had fever (>100ºF) plus one respiratory symptom (cough or coryza) when influenza
virus was known to be circulating in the community. Of 698 subjects enrolled in this trial, 452 (65%) were
influenza-infected (50% male; 68% Caucasian). Of the 452 influenza-infected subjects, 67% were infected with
influenza A and 33% with influenza B.
The primary endpoint in this study was the time to freedom from illness, a composite endpoint that required 4
individual conditions to be met. These were: alleviation of cough, alleviation of coryza, resolution of fever, and
parental opinion of a return to normal health and activity. TAMIFLU treatment of 2 mg/kg twice daily, started
within 48 hours of onset of symptoms, significantly reduced the total composite time to freedom from illness by
1.5 days compared to placebo. Subgroup analyses of this study by gender showed no differences in the
treatment effect of TAMIFLU in male and female pediatric subjects.
Prophylaxis of Influenza
The efficacy of TAMIFLU in preventing naturally occurring influenza illness has been demonstrated in three
seasonal prophylaxis studies and a postexposure prophylaxis study in households. The primary efficacy
parameter for all these studies was the incidence of laboratory-confirmed clinical influenza. Laboratory
confirmed clinical influenza was defined as oral temperature ≥99.0ºF/37.2ºC plus at least one respiratory
symptom (cough, sore throat, nasal congestion) and at least one constitutional symptom (aches and pain,
fatigue, headache, chills/sweats), all recorded within 24 hours, plus either a positive virus isolation or a four
fold increase in virus antibody titers from baseline.
In a pooled analysis of two seasonal prophylaxis studies in healthy unvaccinated adults (aged 13 to 65 years),
TAMIFLU 75 mg once daily taken for 42 days during a community outbreak reduced the incidence of
laboratory-confirmed clinical influenza from 5% (25/519) for the placebo group to 1% (6/520) for the
In a seasonal prophylaxis study in elderly residents of skilled nursing homes, TAMIFLU 75 mg once daily
taken for 42 days reduced the incidence of laboratory-confirmed clinical influenza from 4% (12/272) for the
placebo group to <1% (1/276) for the TAMIFLU group. About 80% of this elderly population were vaccinated,
14% of subjects had chronic airway obstructive disorders, and 43% had cardiac disorders.
Reference ID: 2921316
In a study of postexposure prophylaxis in household contacts (aged ≥13 years) of an index case, TAMIFLU
75 mg once daily administered within 2 days of onset of symptoms in the index case and continued for 7 days
reduced the incidence of laboratory-confirmed clinical influenza from 12% (24/200) in the placebo group to 1%
(2/205) for the TAMIFLU group. Index cases did not receive TAMIFLU in the study.
Pediatric Subjects
The efficacy of TAMIFLU in preventing naturally occurring influenza illness has been demonstrated in a
randomized, open-label, postexposure prophylaxis study in households that included children aged 1 to
12 years, both as index cases and as family contacts. All index cases in this study received treatment. The
primary efficacy parameter for this study was the incidence of laboratory-confirmed clinical influenza in the
household. Laboratory-confirmed clinical influenza was defined as oral temperature ≥100°F/37.8°C plus cough
and/or coryza recorded within 48 hours, plus either a positive virus isolation or a four-fold or greater increase in
virus antibody titers from baseline or at illness visits. Among household contacts 1 to 12 years of age not
already shedding virus at baseline, TAMIFLU for oral suspension 30 mg to 60 mg taken once daily for 10 days
reduced the incidence of laboratory-confirmed clinical influenza from 17% (18/106) in the group not receiving
prophylaxis to 3% (3/95) in the group receiving prophylaxis.
Immunocompromised Subjects
A double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted for seasonal prophylaxis of influenza in 475
immunocompromised subjects (including 18 pediatric subjects 1 to 12 years of age) who had received solid
organ (n=388; liver, kidney, liver and kidney) or hematopoietic stem cell transplants (n=87). Median time since
transplant for solid organ transplant recipients was 1105 days for the placebo group and 1379 days for the
oseltamivir group. Median time since transplant for hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients was 424 days
for the placebo group and 367 days for the oseltamivir group. Approximately 40% of subjects received
influenza vaccine prior to entering the study. The primary efficacy endpoint for this study was the incidence of
confirmed, clinical influenza, defined as oral temperature >99.0°F/37.2°C plus cough and/or coryza, all
recorded within 24 hours, plus either a positive virus culture or a four-fold increase in virus antibody titers from
baseline. The incidence of confirmed clinical influenza was 3% (7/238) in the group not receiving TAMIFLU
compared with 2% (5/237) in the group receiving TAMIFLU; this difference was not statistically significant. A
secondary analysis was performed using the same clinical symptoms and RT-PCR for laboratory confirmation
of influenza. Among subjects who were not already shedding virus at baseline, the incidence of RT-PCR
confirmed clinical influenza was 3% (7/231) in the group not receiving TAMIFLU and <1% (1/232) in the
group receiving TAMIFLU.
HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
30-mg capsules (30 mg free base equivalent of the phosphate salt): light yellow hard gelatin capsules.
"ROCHE" is printed in blue ink on the light yellow body and "30 mg" is printed in blue ink on the light yellow
cap. Available in blister packages of 10 (NDC 0004-0802-85).
45-mg capsules (45 mg free base equivalent of the phosphate salt): grey hard gelatin capsules. "ROCHE" is
printed in blue ink on the grey body and "45 mg" is printed in blue ink on the grey cap. Available in blister
packages of 10 (NDC 0004-0801-85).
75-mg capsules (75 mg free base equivalent of the phosphate salt): grey/light yellow hard gelatin capsules.
"ROCHE" is printed in blue ink on the grey body and "75 mg" is printed in blue ink on the light yellow cap.
Available in blister packages of 10 (NDC 0004-0800-85).
Store the capsules at 25ºC (77ºF); excursions permitted to 15º to 30ºC (59º to 86ºF) [See USP Controlled Room
Reference ID: 2921316
TAMIFLU for Oral Suspension
Supplied as a white powder blend in a glass bottle. After constitution, the powder blend produces a white tutti
frutti–flavored oral suspension. After constitution with 55 mL of water, each bottle delivers a usable volume of
60 mL of oral suspension equivalent to 360 mg oseltamivir base (6 mg/mL). Each bottle is supplied with a
bottle adapter and a 10 mL oral dispenser (NDC 0004-0820-09).
Store dry powder at 25ºC (77ºF); excursions permitted to 15º to 30ºC (59º to 86ºF) [See USP Controlled Room
Store constituted suspension under refrigeration for up to 17 days at 2º to 8ºC (36º to 46ºF). Do not freeze.
Alternatively, store constituted suspension for up to 10 days at 25ºC (77ºF); excursions permitted to 15º to 30ºC
(59º to 86ºF) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].
17 PATIENT
COUNSELING
INFORMATION
See FDA-approved Patient Labeling (Patient Information)
Information for Patients
Patients and/or caregivers should be advised of the risk of severe allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis) or
serious skin reactions and should stop TAMIFLU and seek immediate medical attention if an allergic-like
reaction occurs or is suspected.
Patients and/or caregivers should be advised of the risk of neuropsychiatric events in patients with influenza and
should contact their physician if they experience signs of abnormal behavior while receiving TAMIFLU. Their
physician will determine if TAMIFLU treatment should be continued.
Instruct patients to begin treatment with TAMIFLU as soon as possible from the first appearance of flu
symptoms. Similarly, prevention should begin as soon as possible after exposure, at the recommendation of a
Instruct patients to take any missed doses as soon as they remember, except if it is near the next scheduled dose
(within 2 hours), and then continue to take TAMIFLU at the usual times.
TAMIFLU is not a substitute for a flu vaccination. Patients should continue receiving an annual flu vaccination
according to guidelines on immunization practices.
A bottle of TAMIFLU for oral suspension contains approximately 11 g sorbitol. One dose of 75 mg TAMIFLU
for oral suspension delivers 2 g sorbitol. For patients with hereditary fructose intolerance, this is above the daily
maximum limit of sorbitol and may cause dyspepsia and diarrhea.
Reference ID: 2921316
Gilead Sciences, Inc.
Foster City, California 94404
2011 Genentech, Inc. All rights reserved.
Reference ID: 2921316
Patient Information
(oseltamivir phosphate)
This leaflet contains important information about TAMIFLU (TAM-ih-flew). Read it
well before you begin treatment. This information does not take the place of talking with
your healthcare professional about your medical condition or your treatment. This leaflet
does not list all the benefits and risks of TAMIFLU. If you have any questions about
TAMIFLU, ask your healthcare professional. Only your healthcare professional can
determine if TAMIFLU is right for you.
What is TAMIFLU?
TAMIFLU attacks the influenza virus and stops it from spreading inside your body.
TAMIFLU treats flu at its source, by attacking the virus that causes the flu, rather than
simply masking symptoms.
TAMIFLU is for treating adults and children age 1 and older with the flu whose flu
symptoms started within the last day or two. TAMIFLU can also reduce the chance of
getting the flu in people age 1 and older who have a higher chance of getting the flu
because they spend time with someone who has the flu. TAMIFLU can also reduce the
chance of getting the flu if there is a flu outbreak in the community.
What is "Flu"?
"The flu" is an infection caused by the influenza virus. Flu symptoms include fever
(usually 100ºF to 103ºF in adults, and sometimes higher in children) and problems such
as cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, muscle aches, fever, and extreme
tiredness. Many people use the term "flu" to mean any combination of these symptoms,
such as the common cold, but true influenza infection is often worse and may last longer
Flu outbreaks happen about once a year, usually in the winter, when the influenza virus
spreads widely in the community. Outside of those outbreaks, only a very tiny number of
respiratory infections are caused by the influenza virus.
Should I get a flu shot?
TAMIFLU is not a substitute for a flu vaccination. You should continue to get a flu
vaccination every year, according to your healthcare professional's advice.
Who should not take TAMIFLU?
Do not take TAMIFLU if you are allergic to the main ingredient, oseltamivir phosphate,
or to any other ingredients of TAMIFLU. Before starting treatment, make sure your
healthcare professional knows if you take any other medicines, or are pregnant, planning
to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. TAMIFLU is normally not recommended for use
during pregnancy or nursing, as the effects on the unborn child or nursing infant are
unknown. TAMIFLU is not recommended for use in children younger than 1 year of age.
Reference ID: 2921316
Tell your healthcare professional if you have any type of kidney disease, heart disease,
respiratory disease, or any serious health condition.
TAMIFLU for Oral Suspension contains sorbitol. Sorbitol may cause upset stomach and
diarrhea in patients with a family history of fructose intolerance.
How should I take TAMIFLU?
It is important that you begin your treatment with TAMIFLU as soon as possible from the
first appearance of your flu symptoms or soon after you are exposed to the flu. If you feel
worse or develop new symptoms during treatment with TAMIFLU, or if your flu
symptoms do not start to get better, you should contact your healthcare professional.
If you have the flu: Take TAMIFLU twice a day for 5 days, once in the morning and
once in the evening. You should complete the entire treatment of 10 doses (capsules or
suspension), even if you feel better.
To prevent the flu: If someone in your home has the flu, take TAMIFLU once a day for
10 days or for as long as prescribed. You can take TAMIFLU for up to 6 weeks if you are
exposed to the flu because of an outbreak in your community. Follow your healthcare
professional's advice on how long to take TAMIFLU.
You can take TAMIFLU with food or without food. There is less chance of stomach
upset if you take it with a light snack, milk, or a meal.
If you are taking TAMIFLU for Oral Suspension, your pharmacist will give you a dosing
dispenser to measure the proper amount of Oral Suspension for your dose. Follow your
healthcare professional's instructions on how to measure the proper dose for you. Review
the instructions below on how to use the dispenser and ask your pharmacist if you have
any questions. If you lose or damage the dispenser and cannot use it, contact your
healthcare professional or pharmacist for advice on the proper dose.
If TAMIFLU for Oral Suspension is not available, your healthcare provider may instruct
you to open TAMIFLU Capsules and mix the contents with sweetened liquids such as
regular or sugar-free chocolate syrup, corn syrup, caramel topping, or light brown sugar
(dissolved in water). Please follow the dosing instructions below.
If you forget to take your medicine, take the missed dose as soon as you remember,
except if it is 2 hours or less before your next dose. Then continue to take TAMIFLU at
the usual times. Do not take 2 doses at a time to make up for a missed dose. If you miss
several doses, tell your healthcare professional and follow the advice given to you.
What are the possible side effects of TAMIFLU?
The most common side effects of TAMIFLU are nausea and vomiting. These are usually
mild to moderate. They usually happen in the first 2 days of treatment. Taking TAMIFLU
with food may reduce the chance of getting these side effects.
If you develop an allergic reaction or severe rash, stop taking TAMIFLU and contact
your healthcare professional.
Reference ID: 2921316
People with the flu, particularly children and adolescents, may be at an increased risk of
seizures, confusion, or abnormal behavior early during their illness. These events may
occur shortly after beginning TAMIFLU or may occur when flu is not treated. These
events are uncommon but may result in accidental injury to the patient. Therefore,
patients should be observed for signs of unusual behavior and a healthcare professional
should be contacted immediately if the patient shows any signs of unusual behavior.
Before taking TAMIFLU, please let your healthcare provider know if you have received
nasally administered influenza virus vaccine during the past two weeks.
If you notice any side effects not mentioned in this leaflet, or if you have any concerns
about the side effects you get, tell your healthcare professional.
How and where should I store TAMIFLU?
TAMIFLU Capsules should be stored at room temperature, 77ºF (25ºC) and kept in a dry
place. Keep this medication out of reach of children.
TAMIFLU for Oral Suspension should be stored under refrigeration for up to 17 days at
36º to 46ºF (2º to 8ºC). Do not freeze. Alternatively, store at room temperature for up to
10 days. Discard any unused portion when you are finished with your prescribed dosing
General advice about prescription medicines:
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for conditions that are not mentioned in patient
information leaflets. Do not use TAMIFLU for a condition for which it was not
prescribed. Do not give TAMIFLU to other people, even if they have the same symptoms
you have. It may not be right for them.
This leaflet summarizes the most important information about TAMIFLU. If you would
like more information, talk with your healthcare professional. You can ask your
pharmacist or healthcare professional for information about TAMIFLU that is written for
health professionals.
DOSING INSTRUCTIONS FOR PATIENTS:
How Do I Prepare a Dose of TAMIFLU for Oral Suspension?
Please follow instructions carefully to ensure proper dosing of the oral suspension.
Reference ID: 2921316
• Shake closed bottle well for about 5 seconds before each use.
• Remove child-resistant cap.
• Before inserting the tip of the oral dispenser into bottle adapter, push the plunger
completely down toward the tip of the oral dispenser. Insert tip firmly into opening of
the bottle adapter.
• Turn the entire unit (bottle and oral dispenser) upside down.
• Pull the plunger out slowly until the desired amount of medication is withdrawn into
the oral dispenser (see figure). The 12.5 mL (75 mg) dose is obtained by filling the
dispenser twice, once to the 10 mL graduation, and a second fill to the 2.5 mL
• Turn the entire unit right side up and remove the oral dispenser slowly from the
• Dispense directly into mouth. Do not mix with any liquid prior to dispensing.
• Close bottle with child-resistant cap after each use.
• Disassemble oral dispenser, rinse under running tap water and air dry prior to next
If Directed by My Healthcare Provider, How Do I Mix the Contents of TAMIFLU
Capsules with Sweetened Liquids?
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Please follow instructions carefully to ensure proper dosing.
• Holding one capsule over a small bowl, carefully pull the capsule open and pour the
complete contents of the capsule into the bowl.
• Add to the capsule contents a small amount of a sweetened liquid such as chocolate
syrup (regular or sugar-free), corn syrup, caramel topping, or light brown sugar
(dissolved in water) that the child will consume completely.
• Stir the mixture and give the entire dose to the child.
Gilead Sciences, Inc.
Foster City, California 94404
2011 Genentech, Inc. All rights reserved.
Reference ID: 2921316
Source: http://familymagazine.biz/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/06-Tamiflu-Label.pdf
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