Zanamivir side effects Side effects of zanamivir are comparable to placebo, although the safety of this drug has not been established in patients with chronic pulmonary disease. The patient should drink plenty of fluids to prevent secretions from getting thick and increasing breathing problems.
Rest is recommended to help the body fight the infection.
Antiviral medicines can be used. Antibiotics are of absolutely no use for influenza and are used only for bacterial complications after the acute phase is over. Read more about antibiotic resistance . Zanamivir and oseltamivir have been shown to shorten the duration of flu symptoms if given within 48 hours of symptom onset. Zanamivir, which is administered by the patient with a special inhaler, is approved for use in those 12 years of age and older.