Cheapest Tamiflu
Where can You get the Cheapest Tamiflu?
Of course, when you end up with the flu and need to buy medication, the first question that comes to mind is where to get the cheapest Tamiflu? No one plans ahead or expects to get sick and unless you can afford quality insurance and prescription coverage, flu medication is often an out-of-pocket expense. Unfortunately, it is far from being cheap.
Tamiflu is an antiviral agent that is manufactured exclusively under the name by Hoffmann-La Roche Limited. It is used to treat influenza in individuals who have showed symptoms for no longer than two days maximum. Alternatively, it can also be used as a preventative medication for family members who have been exposed to the virus. Unfortunately if you are looking for the cheapest Tamiflu, you will be pretty disappointed to learn that you can expect to spend right around $80 for these 10 capsules.
Is a Prescription Needed?
Even if you go searching for the cheapest Tamiflu online you will find that its about the same price and yes, a prescription is required. The only good thing about shopping online is that when your local pharmacy runs out of the medication, you will be able to find what you need online from websites in the United States and Canada.
Is There a Generic Version?
Individuals looking for the cheapest Tamiflu may be a bit relieved to hear that there is a generic version or oseltamavir phosphate that is sold under the name of Antiflu. It is used to speed up the recovery of the flu symptoms as long as it is started within 48 hours of contracting the virus. Additionally, it can also be used like Tamiflu to prevent exposed family members from getting sick.
Antiflu is taken twice daily for a total of five days just like Tamiflu and should also be taken with food or milk. The most common side effects reported have been abdominal pain, headache, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea. Some people have experienced insomnia, bronchitis and even vertigo. While it is sold for $60 which is about $20 less than the cheapest Tamiflu, it does seem to have worse side effects reported.
What About Relenza?
Relenza is another option people are turning to for treatment for the flu virus. Using a diskhaler device, the medicine is delivered straight to the infection that is in your lungs. Relenza destroys the chemicals that are on the influenza virus from multiplying and then spreading. It is only safe in children over 5 and it is not recommended for individuals with asthma or those who are over 65, pregnant or breastfeeding.
This medication is also administered twice daily for five days but it is a fine powder that is inhaled into your lungs. While it is only $50 per inhaler, there have been reports of individuals having difficulty breathing, wheezing, hives, rash and swelling of the throat and face. If you feel that you are having an allergic reaction to Relenza, you need emergency care immediately.
Is Tamiflu Safe for Children?
There has been a bit of controversy over whether Tamiflu is safe or beneficial for young children. Many scientists have suggested that the powerful anti-viral reaction has little effect on the duration of the flu in children yet puts them at a significantly higher risk for complications. In fact, it has been found that in comparison, children only seem to get better less than 24 hours sooner with medication than without it. Also, children who did not take Tamiflu experienced milder symptoms overall. Side effects in children include:
- Nausea – At least 29 percent of children experience nausea.
- Vomiting and Diarrhea – Children who took Tamiflu had serious cases of vomiting and diarrhea which is dangerous can can lead to dehydration.
- Nightmares – Nearly 18 percent of children on Tamiflu experienced severe nightmares.
- Stomach Pain and Cramps – One fifth experienced extreme stomach pain and cramping.
- Headaches – Over one quarter of children complained of constant headaches.
If you are looking for the cheapest Tamiflu for your child, you may want to talk to your doctor about the risks, side effects and explore other treatment options if necessary.