Tamiflu (oseltamivir) suspension is in short supply in some areas due to increased demand for swine flu treatment and prevention. The FDA is now allowing pharmacies to compound supplies of liquid Tamiflu to be prepared for incoming prescriptions.
Pharmacy compounding of medications
Usually, the FDA does not allow pharmacies to compound batches of medications ahead of a patient prescription. Shortages of the commercially-prepared Tamiflu suspension are occurring due to unusual demand for swine flu treatment this flu season. The suspension is used in cases where the patient has difficulty swallowing pills and is frequently prescribed for children with swine flu. Pharmacists can prepare the suspension to have available to quickly fill a prescription brought into the pharmacy.
Preparing Tamiflu suspension from capsules
Instructions for preparing Tamiflu suspension are available in the package insert. Pharmacists can use the Tamiflu 75 mg capsules to prepare the suspension. Dosing may be slightly different in the compounded product. Tamiflu commercial suspension is made in a 12 mg/ml concentration while the recommended concentration for compounding is 15 mg/ml.
Using Tamiflu suspension
Patients should be sure to thoroughly shake the suspension for proper mixing before measuring out a dose. The suspension will require refrigeration. It can be dosed using a properly marked syringe.
Interested patients should contact their pharmacist or prescriber regarding the need for specially compounded Tamiflu.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.