Tamiflu Dosing for a 14.3 kg Child
For a child weighing 14.3 kg, administer oseltamivir 30 mg twice daily for 5 days for treatment, or 30 mg once daily for 10 days for prophylaxis. 1
Weight-Based Dosing Algorithm
This child falls into the ≤15 kg weight category, which is the critical determinant for dosing in children ≥12 months of age. 1, 2
Treatment Regimen
- Dose: 30 mg (5 mL of 6 mg/mL oral suspension) twice daily 1
- Duration: 5 days 1
- Timing: Initiate within 48 hours of symptom onset for maximum benefit 1, 2
Prophylaxis Regimen
- Dose: 30 mg (5 mL of 6 mg/mL oral suspension) once daily 3
- Duration: 10 days for post-exposure prophylaxis 3
- Timing: Start within 48 hours following close contact with an infected individual 3
Formulation and Administration
- Use the oral suspension formulation at 6 mg/mL concentration 1
- Measure exactly 5 mL using a calibrated oral dosing device (not household spoons) 1
- Administer with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and vomiting 1, 2
Critical Dosing Pitfall to Avoid
Do not round up to the next weight category. A child weighing 14.3 kg should receive 30 mg, NOT 45 mg, as they remain in the ≤15 kg bracket. 1 The 45 mg dose is reserved for children weighing >15 kg to ≤23 kg. 1
Renal Function Considerations
- No dose adjustment needed if renal function is normal 1
- If creatinine clearance is 10-30 mL/min (unlikely in this age group but important to assess), reduce to 30 mg once daily for treatment or 30 mg every other day for prophylaxis 2, 3
Monitoring and Safety
- Common adverse effects: Nausea and vomiting occur in approximately 10-15% of patients but are typically mild and transient 2, 3
- Taking oseltamivir with food significantly reduces gastrointestinal symptoms 2, 3
- Complete the full course even if symptoms improve earlier to ensure adequate viral suppression 2
- Monitor for headache and skin reactions, which are generally mild 1
Age Verification
Ensure this child is ≥12 months of age, as the weight-based categorical dosing (≤15 kg = 30 mg) applies only to children ≥12 months. 2 For infants <12 months, mg/kg-based dosing is required instead. 2