Should My Child Take Tamiflu?

They’re the words no parent wants to hear during flu season: “I don’t feel good.” Your child has all the classic symptoms: fever, aches and a cough. (Ugh.) Should you call your provider and ask for Tamiflu®?

Pediatrician Sabrina Ma, MD, shares the facts about Tamiflu for kids and what to expect if your child takes it.

What is Tamiflu?

Tamiflu is a brand name for oseltamivir, an antiviral medication designed to treat the flu.

“Tamiflu interferes with enzymes that allow the flu virus to spread,” Dr. Ma explains. “This medication works best if you take it in the first 48 hours after symptoms appear. After that, the virus has already multiplied throughout your body, so the medication won’t have as much effect.”

Studies have shown that Tamiflu can help your child recover from the illness faster.

“Tamiflu can shorten the time that your child is sick,” says Dr. Ma. “It can also prevent serious flu complications like pneumonia.”

Is Tamiflu safe for kids?

Tamiflu is FDA-approved and safe for children 2 weeks of age and up, but not every child needs it.

“Children with health issues like asthma or heart disease often benefit from this medication,” notes Dr. Ma. “But if your child has mild symptoms and doesn’t have a high risk of complications, your provider may recommend home care instead.”

Tamiflu side effects in kids

All medications have possible side effects. And Tamiflu is no exception. Some kids have mild or no side effects, while others may experience more bothersome issues.

“There’s no way to know exactly which side effects your child might have, if any,” Dr. Ma cautions. “But don’t let concern about side effects keep you from giving this medication to your child. If your provider has recommended it, the benefits of this medicine outweigh the risks.”

Common Tamiflu side effects in children include:

• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Allergic reactions to the medicine (very rare)

It’s also possible that children could experience temporary behavior changes when they first start taking Tamiflu.

“Some children may have mild to moderate confusion or mood changes, but this is uncommon,” informs Dr. Ma. “It’s good to be aware of all side effects, including rare ones, so you can watch for them. If you think your child is acting differently, contact your provider.”

Dosing for different ages

Only a healthcare professional can determine the right Tamiflu dose for your child.

“Your child’s pediatrician will give you an exact dosage based on your child’s age, weight and kidney health,” Dr. Ma clarifies. “This means the dose your child receives will be the most effective amount for them.”

Once it’s prescribed, your kiddo will need to take the recommended dose twice per day for five days.

“Tamiflu comes in liquid and pills, so your provider will prescribe the form that’s right for your child,” says Dr. Ma. “The liquid may need to be refrigerated, so make sure you store it properly.”

Preventing the flu

Tamiflu is an effective flu treatment, but it can also be a preventive tool.

“If your child has been exposed to the flu and has a high risk of complications, they may benefit from taking Tamiflu before they become sick,” states Dr. Ma. “This is known as a prophylactic, or preventive, dose. In this case, children usually receive one dose per day for 10 days.”

Taking Tamiflu to prevent the flu can be helpful, but don’t rely on this strategy alone.

“The flu vaccine is the best way to protect your child from serious flu complications,” Dr. Ma asserts. “There’s no substitute for getting vaccinated each year.”

You can also lower the chances of your child getting the flu if you:

• Avoid sick people. Skip get-togethers if a fellow guest has flu-like symptoms. (And stay home if you’re not feeling well!)
• Don’t touch your face. The flu virus can get into your body if you touch a contaminated surface and then touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Protect your baby. Don’t be afraid to ask others not to hold or touch your baby during flu season. Ask those around your baby, including household members and caretakers, to get the flu vaccine to decrease the risk of spreading it to infants. “Babies under 6 months can’t get the flu vaccine. And they have the highest risk of flu complications,” says Dr. Ma. “You have a right to guard your baby from this dangerous illness.”
• Wash your hands. Handwashing is a great way to avoid getting the flu and other nasties like colds and norovirus. “Wash before eating or preparing food and after using the bathroom,” Dr. Ma advises. “High-touch surfaces like door handles, elevator buttons and shopping carts also carry germs, so wash your hands after touching them.”

Being prepared for flu season can lower stress

If you’re stressed about your child getting the flu, you’re not alone. But remember, you have options to protect your kids — and yourself.

“The flu vaccine is your best bet for preventing a serious bout of the flu in your child,” Dr. Ma emphasizes. “And if they do start to show symptoms, don’t wait. Call your child’s provider right away to determine whether Tamiflu might be an option. The sooner they start taking it, the better.”