Amantadine and Rimantadine
Among some healthy adults and children, side effects can include
central nervous system (CNS) side effects such as nervousness,
anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and lightheadedness,
and gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and loss
of appetite. CNS side effects happen more often among persons
taking amantadine than among persons taking rimantadine.
Among some other persons with long-term illnesses, more
serious side effects, such as delirium, hallucinations,
agitation, and seizures, can occur. Side effects usually
diminish and disappear after 1 week.
Zanamivir
This drug is inhaled and can cause side effects, especially
in those with asthma or other chronic lung disease. Decreased
respiratory function and bronchospasm have been reported
with use of zanamivir. Zanamivir is generally not recommended
for use in persons with underlying lung disease such as asthma
and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Other side effects
reported by less than 5% of those who have used this drug
are diarrhea, nausea, sinusitis, nasal infections, bronchitis,
cough, headache, and dizziness.
Oseltamivir
The side effects reported most often in those people who took
this drug were gastrointestinal (i.e., nausea and vomiting).
Nausea and vomiting may be less severe if oseltamivir is taken
with food.
Click on the link below for more detailed information about
antiviral drugs for influenza:
Prevention and Control of Influenza, Recommendations of the
Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) Morbidity
and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), April 25, 2003 / Vol.
52 / No. RR-08.
Click on the link below for more detailed information about
antiviral drugs for influenza:
Prevention
and Control of Influenza, Recommendations of the Advisory
Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), April 25, 2003
/ Vol. 52 / No. RR-08.
For more information, see
Additional Links, Information, and Resources
on Antiviral Drugs for Influenza |
