?Oseltamivir
Tamiflu is a prescription antiviral medication used to treat and prevent influenza (the flu) in adults and children. It works by inhibiting an enzyme that allows the influenza virus to spread to other cells, helping to reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms when taken early in the illness.
Tamiflu is an antiviral used to treat and prevent influenza (the flu) by inhibiting viral spread.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 261657
- Generic
- Tamiflu
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Tamiflu is FDA-approved for treatment of acute uncomplicated influenza in patients 2 weeks of age and older who have had symptoms for no more than 48 hours, as well as for prevention (prophylaxis) of influenza in patients 1 year and older following exposure to someone with the flu.
Tamiflu contains the active ingredient oseltamivir, which belongs to a class of drugs called neuraminidase inhibitors. It works by blocking the neuraminidase enzyme on the surface of influenza viruses, preventing newly formed virus particles from being released from infected cells and spreading to other cells in the body.
Tamiflu is most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset for treatment. It is not a substitute for annual flu vaccination and does not treat other respiratory viruses. Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, and headache. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy