Doxylamine and Zanamivir Inhalation, oral/nebulization

• Generic Name: doxylamine
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Unisom, Nytol Maximum Strength, Aldex AN, Nitetime Sleep-Aid, Sleep Aid

Doxylamine is an antihistamine that reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. Antihistamines can cause drowsiness and are sometimes used a sleep aids.

Doxylamine is used to treat sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, hives, skin rash, itching, and other cold or allergy symptoms.

Doxylamine is also used as a short-term treatment for sleep problems (insomnia).

Doxylamine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

• Generic Name: zanamivir
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Relenza

Zanamivir belongs to the family of medicines called antivirals, which are used to treat infections caused by viruses. Zanamivir is used in the treatment of the infection caused by the flu virus (influenza A and influenza B). Zanamivir may also be used to prevent and treat swine influenza A.

Zanamivir may reduce flu symptoms (weakness, headache, fever, cough, runny or stuffy nose, and sore throat) by 1 to 1.5 days. Zanamivir may also be used to prevent influenza infection if you have come into close contact with someone who has the flu.

Zanamivir must be started within 2 days of having flu symptoms. Zanamivir will not keep you from spreading the flu virus to other people. It may not work for everybody. Zanamivir may not be for you if you are severely sick or have a breathing problem (e.g., asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). If you receive the flu vaccine every year, continue to do so. Zanamivir is not a substitute for your yearly flu shot.

Zanamivir is available only with your doctor's prescription.