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  5. 2012-2013 Influenza Season: Availability of Antivirals
  1. Drug Shortages

2012-2013 Influenza Season: Availability of Antivirals

  • Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) Oral Suspension
    • Intermittent shortages are expected for the remainder of the influenza season.
    • For patients who could be correctly dosed with available capsule sizes in place of oral suspension product but cannot swallow capsules, the capsules can be opened and the contents may be mixed with chocolate syrup or some other thick, sweet liquid, as directed by a healthcare professional.
    • If there is difficulty locating commercial Tamiflu for Oral Suspension, FDA would like to remind healthcare professionals of the FDA-approved Instructions for the emergency compounding of an oral suspension from Tamiflu 75 mg capsules. These instructions provide for an alternative oral suspension when commercially manufactured oral suspension formulation is not readily available.
  • Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) 75 mg Capsules
    • No current shortage.
    • Roche/Genentech is currently distributing some product with older packaging and outdated labeling (NOT outdated drug).   Please refer to the most current version of the prescribing information (dated December 2012) that can be downloaded at: http://www.gene.com/gene/products/information/tamiflu/pdf/pi.pdf disclaimer icon.
  • Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) 45 mg Capsules
    • No current shortage.
    • Pediatric patients can be dosed correctly with the 30 mg and 45 mg capsules.
  • Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) 30 mg Capsules
    • No current shortage.
    • Pediatric patients can be dosed correctly with the 30 mg and 45 mg capsules.
    • Roche/Genentech is currently distributing some product with older packaging and outdated labeling (NOT outdated drug).   Please refer to the most current version of the prescribing information (dated December 2012) that can be downloaded at: http://www.gene.com/gene/products/information/tamiflu/pdf/pi.pdf3 disclaimer icon
  • Relenza (zanamivir) Inhalation Powder
    • No current shortage.

 

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