Dry Powder Diskhaler

Glaxo Smithkline

Relenza (Zanamivir) is used to treat influenza A and B in adults and children 7 years of age and older who have had symptoms for no more than 2 days.

Do not take Relenza (Zanamivir) if you are allergic to any ingredient in Relenza (Zanamivir) if you have Chronic Pulmonary Disease

Before using Relenza (Zanamivir), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription medicine, nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement if you have lung disease, including asthma, COPD, or emphysema if you have any other medical condition

Relenza (Zanamivir) has been known to cause serious and potentially fatal breathing problems, especially in people who have asthma or other chronic pulmonary disorders. If you do use it under these circumstances, be extremely cautious, and make sure that you have a fast-acting inhaled bronchodilator (Proventil Inhaler or Ventolin Inhaler) available and ready to use whenever you take Relenza (Zanamivir).

Other:  Vomiting; general body discomfort; tiredness; fever; stomach pain; joint and muscle pain; diarrhea; nausea; headache; bronchitis; ear, nose, and throat infections.

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Relenza (Zanamivir) you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Your health care provider should instruct you in how to use Relenza (Zanamivir). Carefully read and follow the instructions included with Relenza (Zanamivir). The use of Relenza (Zanamivir) does not reduce the risk of transmitting the flu to others and does not prevent you from catching it. Relenza (Zanamivir) should not be used in place of influenza vaccine recommended by the Centers for Disease Control. Contact your doctor at once if you have problems breathing, such as wheezing or shortness of breath, or other signs of bronchospasm. Patients with asthma or other breathing disorders should have a fast-acting inhaled bronchodilator available while using Relenza (Zanamivir). Use your inhaled bronchodilator 5 minutes before taking Relenza (Zanamivir). Stop taking Relenza (Zanamivir) and contact your health care provider at once if you experience worsening breathing problems. Relenza (Zanamivir) may cause dizziness. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity. Lab tests may be required to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments. Finish all of Relenza (Zanamivir) as prescribed. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking Relenza (Zanamivir). Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your doctor or health care provider. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your doctor. This includes any herbal preparations or dietary supplements. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Store Relenza (Zanamivir) between 59 and 86 degrees F. Do not puncture the blister until you are ready to take a dose using the Diskhaler .