Rapivab

Rapivab injection is an antiviral drug used for the treatment of acute uncomplicated influenza in adults who have flu symptoms such as:

• Weakness
• Headache
• Fever
• Cough
• Runny or stuffy nose
• and Sore throat for no more than 2 days

This drug is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your healthcare professional.

Before using Rapivab, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. Inform your healthcare provider for any allergic reactions to these drugs or any other drugs, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. Carefully read the label of non-prescription drugs for any possible allergic reaction or contraindications.

Studies in children regarding the correlation of age to the effects of peramivir injection have not been performed while safety and efficacy have not been established.

Studies in the elderly have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the utility of peramivir injection in the elderly. Adverse effects have been reported in animal studies but studies in pregnant women or animals are still inadequate.

Infant risk is still undetermined when taking this drug during breastfeeding. Discuss with your healthcare professional about the risks and benefits of this drug before breastfeeding.

Drugs should not be taken together to prevent any interactions but in necessary cases inquire your healthcare provider regarding the adjustments in dosage or any other necessary precautions to prevent any unwanted side effects.

Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription drugs. Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with this drug is associated with an increased risk of certain side effects.

Your healthcare professional can give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco. Inform your healthcare provider for any other medical problems such as kidney disease.

Proper usage of Rapivab requires strict adherence to your doctor’s orders. A trained healthcare professional will be only to give you this drug in a hospital. This drug is administered intravenously through a needle placed in one of your veins.

The drug must be injected slowly, so your IV tube will need to stay in place for 15 to 30 minutes. It is recommended to give this drug as soon as possible after flu symptoms start or after you are exposed to the flu.

Before using Rapivab, there are some precautions you must take. Regular visits should be made to your healthcare provider to track your progress and to monitor the effectiveness of the drug.

Check with your healthcare professional immediately if you have symptoms of a serious skin reaction such as:

• Blistering
• Peeling or loose skin
• Red skin lesions
• Severe acne or skin rash
• Sores or ulcers on the skin
• Fever or chills while you are using this drug

This drug may cause some people to be confused or display other abnormal behaviors. Tell your healthcare professional immediately if you have hallucinations or unusual excitement, nervousness, or restlessness after receiving this drug.

Inform your healthcare professional if you plan to get the live flu vaccine nasal spray before you start using this drug. You should not receive the vaccine within 2 weeks before or 48 hours after using this drug.

Check with your healthcare professional if your symptoms do not improve, or if they become worse after you receive this drug.

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Rapivab. Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur.

Seek advice from your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms such as:

• Blistering
• Peeling, or loosening of the skin
• Chills
• Cough
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Itching
• Joint or muscle pain
• Red, irritated eyes
• Sore throat
• Sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Confusion as to time, place, or person
• Holding false beliefs that cannot be changed by fact
• Red skin lesions, often with a purple center
• Seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there
• Unusual excitement
• Nervousness
• Restlessness

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. As your body adjusts to the medicine, the side effects will slowly disappear. Ask your healthcare professional about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

If any of the following side effects persists or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional. Report any side effects to the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.