Peramivir (Rapivab)
Peramivir works by preventing an enzyme in the body from releasing virus from infected cells.
Peramivir is used to treat influenza in adults and children who are at least 2 years old, who have had flu symptoms for up to 2 days.
Peramivir may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
uses
What is Peramivir (Rapivab) used for?
- Influenza
- Infection - Bacterial/Fungal/Protozoal/Viral
- Influenza with Pneumonia
warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Peramivir (Rapivab)?
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis); or
- if you have received a nasal flu vaccine (FluMist) within the past 2 weeks.
It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It may not be safe to breast-feed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.
Side Effects
What are the side effects of Peramivir (Rapivab)?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning in your eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling).
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- new or worsening flu symptoms; or
- confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior.
Common side effects may include:
- diarrhea;
- constipation; or
- sleep problems (insomnia).
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I take Peramivir (Rapivab) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It may not be safe to breast-feed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Peramivir (Rapivab)?
Avoid getting the nasal flu vaccine (FluMist) within 48 hours after you are treated with peramivir, unless your doctor tells you to.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Peramivir (Rapivab)?
Use Peramivir (Rapivab) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Peramivir is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Peramivir is usually given as a single dose. The medicine should be given within the first 2 days of when flu symptoms start.
Peramivir will not treat an infection caused by bacteria or fungus.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse after you have received this medicine.
Since peramivir is used as a single dose, it does not have a daily dosing schedule.
Overdose Signs
What happens if I overdose on Peramivir (Rapivab)?
Since this medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.