Guide To Common Antiviral Medications

Peramivir

Peramivir is used to treat influenza symptoms that have been present for forty-eight hours or less. It is given as an infusion and must be administered by a doctor. The infusion takes fifteen to thirty minutes, and patients only need to receive a single dose. The medication stops an enzyme from releasing influenza from infected cells in the body. It is approved for use in patients who are at least two years old. Of course, before receiving peramivir, patients must review their medical history with their doctor. Points of concern include a history of kidney disease or if they are on dialysis.

In addition, patients should inform their doctor if they have received a nasal flu vaccine in the past forty-eight hours. The most common side effects of this medication are constipation, diarrhea, and insomnia. Patients should let their healthcare team know if they notice a skin rash or new or worsening flu symptoms. Patients or their caregivers will need to alert medical staff if the patient displays any signs of confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behavior.

Baloxavir Marboxil

Baloxavir marboxil is a polymerase acidic endonuclease inhibitor. This medication blocks the spread of influenza in the body. It is intended for use in patients who are at least twelve years old and who weigh at least eighty-eight pounds. Like other influenza medicines, it must be taken within the first forty-eight hours of illness. It can help reduce the duration of illness. This medication may also help prevent influenza symptoms in asymptomatic individuals who have been exposed. Baloxavir marboxil is available as a tablet and as an oral suspension. It is given as a single dose. Before starting this medication, patients should let their doctor know if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.

When using the oral suspension, the patient should take the dose while they are sitting up or standing. The suspension should not be mixed with any other liquid. In addition, it should not be mixed with food. Patients should not take it with dairy products or calcium-fortified drinks either. During treatment with baloxavir marboxil, patients may notice side effects. Common ones include nausea, diarrhea, coughing, chest congestion, headaches, and a runny nose.