Can Urgent Care Prescribe Tamiflu? Medical Attention for Flu

When to Go to Urgent Care for the Flu

Understanding the symptoms of the flu can help you know when it's time to seek medical attention. MedlinePlus lists the symptoms of the flu as:

• High fever (above 100.4°F)

• Severe body aches

• Fatigue

• Chills

• Headache

• Sore throat

• Cough

It is important to note that Tamiflu is most effective when taken within the first 48 hours of symptoms starting, according to Tamiflu.com. So it is important to get prompt medical attention if you are experiencing any symptoms of the flu or have been exposed to the flu and you want to take Tamiflu.

In some cases, flu symptoms can become severe and require medical attention. MedlinePlus advises that you should seek medical attention right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing

• Rapid or shallow breathing

• Chest pain or pressure

• Confusion or disorientation

• Severe vomiting or inability to keep fluids down

• Bluish lips or face

• Seizures

Additionally, if you are at a higher risk of flu-related complications, you should get medical attention at the first sign of illness or if you are exposed to someone who has the flu. MedlinePlus lists the following criteria as increasing the likelihood of flu-related complications:

• Infants younger than 12 months old

• Elderly 65 years old or older

• Are pregnant or have given birth in the past two weeks

• Are younger than 19 years of age and also receiving long-term aspirin therapy

• Having certain chronic medical conditions, such as asthma , heart disease, diabetes, neurological or neurodevelopmental disease, metabolic disorders, and kidney, liver or blood disease

• Have a weakened immune system due to factors such as long-term use of steroids or other immunosuppressants, HIV, organ transplant, blood cancer, or cancer being treated with chemotherapy

• Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater

• Live in a long-term care facility such as a nursing home or rehabilitation center

• Currently in the hospital

If you have any of these, you may be at a higher risk of developing a severe case of the flu or having flu-related complications. MedlinePlus notes that Tamiflu can help decrease your risk of complications.

What Is Tamiflu?

Tamiflu is a prescription medication that is commonly used to treat influenza (also known as “the flu”), according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The National Institute of Health (NIH) notes that Tamiflu is a type of antiviral medication that helps to stop the flu virus from replicating, thus slowing the spread of the virus within the body. Studies noted by the NIH and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that Tamiflu can lessen the severity and duration of the flu illness.

How Tamiflu Works

Tamiflu works by inhibiting the neuraminidase enzyme that is produced by the flu virus, according to the FDA. This is an enzyme that is responsible for helping the virus to spread from cell to cell in the body. When you take Tamiflu, it works to help to stop the virus from spreading which can help reduce your symptoms, according to the FDA.

When is Tamiflu Used?

Tamiflu is primarily used to treat the flu, however, the FDA notes that it can also be used to prevent the flu if you have been exposed to someone who has it. When treating the flu, the FDA notes that Tamiflu is most effective when it is taken within 48 hours of the onset of flu symptoms.

How to Take Tamiflu

Tamiflu is available in both capsule and liquid form, according to Tamiflu.com. The FDA notes that the dosage and administration of Tamiflu will depend on your age, weight, and the severity of your symptoms. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for you.

Side Effects of Tamiflu

Like all medications, Tamiflu can cause side effects. Tamiflu.com notes that the most common side effects of Tamiflu are:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Headache

If you experience any bothersome side effects while taking Tamiflu, the FDA recommends that you contact your healthcare provider.

Age Restrictions for Tamiflu

Tamiflu is approved for use in people who are 2 weeks of age and older, according to Tamiflu.com. However, the dosage and administration of Tamiflu will vary based on age and weight.

Insurance Coverage for Tamiflu Prescription

Many insurance plans cover the cost of Tamiflu. However, coverage may vary depending on your plan and the pharmacy you use. You should contact your insurance provider to determine your specific coverage when it comes to prescriptions.

Other Medications That Can Be Prescribed for Flu Treatment

In addition to Tamiflu, there are other medications that are approved to treat the flu. These medications include zanamivir and peramivir, according to MedlinePlus. Your healthcare provider can help determine the appropriate medication for you based on your symptoms and medical history.

Can Urgent Care Prescribe Tamiflu?

Urgent care clinics are equipped to treat mild to moderate illnesses, including the flu. This includes prescribing Tamiflu if your urgent care provider determines that you will benefit from it. There are certain criteria that you must meet, in order to be prescribed Tamiflu, according to the FDA. These criteria include:

• You have tested positive for the flu or have been exposed to someone with the flu

• You are in good health and not at risk of complications

• You are within the first 48 hours of symptom onset

• You are not allergic to the medication

If you meet these criteria, you can talk to your urgent care provider about taking Tamiflu to help reduce the severity and duration of your flu symptoms.

Regulations For Getting a Tamiflu Prescription

Tamiflu is a prescription medication that is regulated by the FDA. Because of this, it can only be prescribed by licensed healthcare providers who are authorized to do so by state laws. Urgent care clinics must comply with these regulations when prescribing Tamiflu.

Getting a Tamiflu Prescription From Urgent Care

Most urgent care clinics are equipped to treat mild to moderate cases of the flu, and are able to prescribe medication when necessary. If you want to verify this, you can call the clinic before you go and ask them about their ability to prescribe Tamiflu. You can also check their website or online reviews to see what past patients have to say about their experiences.

Getting a Tamiflu Prescription Using Telemedicine

If you are unable to visit an urgent care clinic in person, telemedicine may be an option. Some urgent care clinics offer virtual consultations where you can speak with a healthcare provider and receive a prescription for Tamiflu if you meet the criteria.

It is important to remember that Tamiflu is not a cure for the flu, but it can help reduce the severity and duration of your symptoms, according to the FDA.

Tips for Managing and Preventing Flu

In addition to treatment with Tamiflu, MedlinePlus notes some steps you can take to manage your symptoms. These steps include:

• Getting plenty of rest

• Staying hydrated

• Reducing your fever with over-the-counter medications like Tylenol or Ibuprofen

MedlinePlus also notes ways you can lower your chances of getting sick with the flu. Their recommendations include getting a flu vaccine , washing your hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with those who have symptoms.

If you do find yourself with a case of the flu, Tamiflu is helpful for most cases. It is most effective when started within the first 48 hours of symptoms, according to Tamiflu.com. So it is important to see a doctor who can prescribe it as soon as possible.