Classes
DEA Class; Rx
Common Brand Names; Relenza
- Antivirals, Influenza;
- Neuraminidase Inhibitors
Description
Neuraminidase inhibitor given via oral inhalation
Used for the treatment and prophylaxis of influenza virus A and B infection
When used for treatment, most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset
Indications
Indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated acute influenza A virus infection or influenza B virus infection.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to zanamivir or formulation, including milk proteins
Adverse Effects
- Headache (13-24%)
- Throat/tonsil pain (8-19%)
- Cough ( 7-17%)
- Viral infection (3-13%)
- Dizziness (2%)
- Nausea (3%)
- Diarrhea (3% adults, 2% children)
- Vomiting (1% adults, 2% children)
- Sinusitis (3%)
- Bronchitis (2%)
- Infection (ear, nose, & throat; 2% adults, 5% children)
Warnings
Administer only via the Diskhaler inhaler
Do not make into an extemporaneous solution for administration by nebulization or mechanical ventilation; fatality reports of hospitalized patients with influenza who received a solution made with Relenza Inhalation Powder administered by nebulization or mechanical ventilation; lactose in this formulation obstructs proper functioning of the equipment
Most effective when used within 24-48 hr of onset of symptoms
Not recommended for treatment or prophylaxis of influenza in individuals with underlying airway diseases (eg, asthma, COPD); serious cases of bronchospasm, including fatalities, have been reported during treatment
If use is considered for patient with underlying airway disease, carefully monitor respiratory function, closely observe patient, and have supportive therapy (ie, fast-acting bronchodilators) immediately available
Reports of abnormal behavior and delirium
Pregnancy and Lactation
Available data from published studies suggest that use during pregnancy is not associated with an increased risk of birth defects or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes
There are no data on presence of zanamivir in human milk or effects on milk production
Maximum Dosage
10 mg (i.e., 2 oral inhalations of 5 mg) twice daily.
10 mg (i.e., 2 oral inhalations of 5 mg) twice daily.
10 mg (i.e., 2 oral inhalations of 5 mg) twice daily.
7 to 12 years: 10 mg (i.e., 2 oral inhalations of 5 mg) twice daily.
5 to 6 years: 10 mg (i.e., 2 oral inhalations of 5 mg) once daily.
1 to 4 years: Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
How supplied
Zanamivir
inhalation powder
- 5mg (20 units per Rotadisk)
