Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) is an antiviral drug used to treat symptoms caused by the flu virus (influenza) and to reduce the length of time a person feels ill
. It works by attacking the flu virus to keep it from multiplying in the body and by reducing the severity of symptoms such as fever, chills, aches, cough, sore throat, and tiredness
. Tamiflu can also reduce the chance of getting the flu in people 1 year and older, but it is not a substitute for an annual flu vaccination
. Tamiflu is not recommended for people with severe kidney disease who are not on dialysis, and it should not be taken by people who are allergic to oseltamivir phosphate or any of the ingredients in Tamiflu
. The most common side effects of Tamiflu are nausea and vomiting, which usually occur in the first 2 days of treatment and can be lessened by taking Tamiflu with food
