Generic Relenza

What is Generic Relenza used for

Generic Relenza is a medicine used to treat Influenza, or "flu", which is caused by a virus infection. Generic Relenza contains zanamivir.

Using a Diskhaler device, Generic Relenza is delivered directly to the primary site of infection in the lungs. It works by destroying a chemical on the surface of the influenza virus. This stops the virus multiplying and spreading throughout the nose, lungs and air passages.

Best results are obtained by taking Generic Relenza as soon as possible after developing symptoms.

Generic Relenza does not work for the common cold or virus infections other than influenza.

Ask your doctor if you have any questions about why Generic Relenza has been prescribed for you.

Generic Relenza can be used in the treatment of influenza type A and B in children over the age of 5 years.

There is limited experience with the use of Generic Relenza in elderly patients (65 years and older). The same dose is recommended in elderly patients.

Before you take Generic Relenza

Do not take Generic Relenza if you have ever had an allergic reaction to zanamivir or lactose.

Do not take Generic Relenza if you are breastfeeding, pregnant or trying to become pregnant, unless your doctor says you should.

You should discuss any concerns you have with your doctor.

Do not take Generic Relenza after the expiry date (EXP) printed on the pack.

Do not take Generic Relenza if the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering.

If you suffer from asthma, you should discuss the use of Generic Relenza with your doctor.

If you're not sure whether you should be taking Generic Relenza, talk to your doctor.

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any foods or medicines or if you are taking any other medicines.

Some medicines may affect the way others work. Generic Relenza is unlikely to be affected by other drugs taken for influenza (for example, paracetamol or cough medicine).

How to take Generic Relenza

The Pharmacist's label on the pack will tell you how to take your Generic Relenza. If there is something you do not understand, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

You should start taking Generic Relenza as soon as possible, preferably within two days, after developing symptoms to get the best effect.

If you suffer from asthma, you may need to use your reliever medication before taking Generic Relenza. You should discuss this with your doctor.

Generic Relenza comes as a fine powder. This powder is in small pockets (known as blisters) in a round foil sheet, known as a Disk. The medicine in your Generic Relenza Disk is taken by breathing it in through your mouth using the Generic Relenza Diskhaler. Follow the instruction sheet that is in the box containing your Diskhaler.

You should breathe in the contents of two blisters, twice a day (usually morning and evening), for five days.

Do not miss any doses. If you forget to take a dose take it as soon as you remember, then go back to taking it as you would normally. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose when you are meant to. Do not take a double dose to make up for the dose that you missed.

If you take too much (overdose) immediately telephone your doctor. If you think you or anyone else may have taken too much Generic Relenza, even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.

If you are not sure what to do, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

While you are taking Generic Relenza

If you are about to be started on any other medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist that you are taking Generic Relenza.

Do not stop taking Generic Relenza, or change the dose, without first checking with your doctor.

Do not give this medicine to anyone else, even if their symptoms seem similar to yours.

Do not use Generic Relenza to treat any other complaints.

Side-Effects of Generic Relenza

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you have any problems while taking Generic Relenza, even if you do not think the problem is related to the medicine.

There have been rare reports of wheezing and shortness of breath in people with asthma or chronic lung disease after taking Generic Relenza. More rarely, some shortness of breath has occurred in people who do not suffer from asthma or respiratory disease.

People with this problem should report any concerns to their doctor.

If you suffer from asthma or chronic lung disease, you should have relief medication available when taking Generic Relenza.

There have also been rare reports of allergic type reactions which include swelling of the face and throat, skin rash and hives.

These symptoms may not necessarily signify a hypersensitivity reaction (see below).

Generic Relenza is otherwise, generally well tolerated. In clinical studies some side effects were observed. If you feel you are experiencing a side-effect, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. There may be some side-effects which are not yet known.

If you think you are having an allergic reaction to Generic Relenza, TELL YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY or go to the Accident and Emergency department at your nearest hospital. Symptoms usually include some or all of the following: wheezing, swelling of the lips/mouth, difficulty in breathing, hay fever, lumpy rash ("hives"), fainting.