Sodium nitrite and sodium thiosulfate and Zanamivir Inhalation, oral/nebulization

• Generic Name: sodium nitrite / sodium thiosulfate
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Nithiodote

Sodium nitrite and sodium thiosulfate is a combination medicine that is used as an antidote to cyanide poisoning. Sodium nitrite and sodium thiosulfate works by helping cells in the body convert cyanide to a form that can be removed from the body through urination.

Sodium nitrite and sodium thiosulfate is used in an emergency to treat cyanide poisoning. This type of poisoning can occur if you are exposed to smoke from a house or industrial fire, if you swallow or breathe in cyanide, or if you get cyanide on your skin.

Sodium nitrite and sodium thiosulfate 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.