Peramivir

Generic name: peramivir [ per-AM-i-vir ]
Brand name: Rapivab
Dosage form: intravenous solution (10 mg/mL)
Drug class: Neuraminidase inhibitors

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on May 22, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is peramivir?

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.

Peramivir side effects

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).

Peramivir may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• new or worsening flu symptoms; or

• confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior.

Common side effects of peramivir 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.

Warnings

Before you receive peramivir, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and allergies. Also make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Before taking this medicine

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 peramivir 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.

How is peramivir given?

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.

Peramivir dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Influenza:

600 mg IV once as a single dose

Use: For the treatment of acute uncomplicated influenza in patients symptomatic no more than 2 days

Usual Pediatric Dose for Influenza:

6 months to 12 years: 12 mg/kg IV once as a single dose
-Maximum dose: 600 mg/dose
13 years or older: 600 mg IV once as a single dose

Use: For the treatment of acute uncomplicated influenza in patients symptomatic no more than 2 days

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since peramivir is used as a single dose, it does not have a daily dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Since peramivir is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid after receiving peramivir?

Avoid getting the nasal flu vaccine (FluMist) within 48 hours after you are treated with peramivir, unless your doctor tells you to.

What other drugs will affect peramivir?

Other drugs may affect peramivir, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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