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What are the side effects of Relenza?

Relenza (generic name zanamivir) is a medication for treating the flu. Most people tolerate it well. Uncommon side effects include bronchitis, cough, stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and headache. Infrequently, Relenza may cause difficulty breathing. This side effect is more likely in people with asthma, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis, but also has been reported by people who don't have these conditions. In most cases, people with lung disease should not use Relenza in order to avoid developing serious breathing problems.

Sources:
Micromedex® Healthcare Series, Thomson Micromedex Inc., 2006.
"Neuraminidase Inhibitors for Treatment of Influenza A and B Infections," Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report 48 (1999).
Relenza product information, GlaxoSmithkline, 2006.
Williamson JC et al. “Respiratory Distress Associated with Zanamivir,” New England Journal of Medicine 342 (2000).
Drug Information, “Relenza”. http://www.fda.gov/cder/consumer information. Last accessed 11/21/2006.
Drugs and Supplements, “Relenza”. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus. Medline Plus. Last accessed 11/21/2006.

This answer prepared 7/11/2000.
This information updated 11/21/2006.