Key facts about Relenza
What is Relenza?
Relenza is the brand name for zanamivir and is available as an oral inhalation powder.
What dosages is Relenza available in?
Relenza is available as four 5-mg blisters of powder on a
ROTADISK for oral inhalation via DISKHALER. Packaged in carton containing 5 ROTADISKs (total of 10 doses) and 1 DISKHALER inhalation device.
What is Relenza used for?
Relenza is an antiviral and is used to treat the following:
- Flu treatment type A and B (for patients 7 and older)
- Flu prevention type A and B (for patients 5 and older)
How does Relenza work?
Relenza is an antiviral medication that stops an enzyme in the influenza type A and B (flu) virus called neuraminidase. Without this enzyme the virus can’t spread in your lungs.
How do I take Relenza?
Relenza is typically dosed as follows:
- Flu treatment: The typical dose for adults and children age 7 or older is 10 mg two times a day for 5 days
- Flu prevention: The typical dose for adults and children age 5 or older is 10 mg once a day for 10 or 28 days depending on the setting
Is it safe for me to take Relenza?
Relenza is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. Do not use in patients with history of allergic reaction to any ingredient of
Relenza, including milk proteins.
Relenza Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Relenza:
- Runny nose
- Dizziness
Relenza Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Relenza. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Difficulty breathing, coughing, or chest tightness (signs of bronchospasm)
- Severe rash or throat swelling (signs of allergic reaction)
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Relenza
The following medications may interact with Relenza:
- Do not administer live attenuated influenza vaccine, intranasal until 48 hours following cessation of Relenza
- Do not administer Relenza until 2 weeks following administration of the live attenuated influenza vaccine, unless medically indicated
Who makes Relenza?
GlaxoSmithKline
Is Relenza safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Relenza can harm an unborn baby. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
