Do Kids Need to Complete the Full Course of Flu Medication?

Q: Do Kids Need to Complete the Full Course of Flu Medication?

Hello： The main side effects of K Influenza are headaches and nausea; very rarely, it can cause hepatitis, rashes, gastrointestinal bleeding, and mental suppression. <br>Insomnia is not listed as a common side effect in the literature; I suspect that the nasal decongestant may be

Is it necessary to complete the entire course of antiviral medication for influenza?

A 12-year-old child has contracted influenza B and has been taking medication for two days, during which he has experienced insomnia.
He usually sleeps well, and currently, he is only taking antiviral medication and analgesics/antipyretics, so the insomnia is likely a side effect of the medication (the package insert from Roche mentions that insomnia can occur in a very small number of cases).
It seems counterintuitive that a sick person would have trouble sleeping when rest is important for recovery.
Is it necessary to complete the full five days of medication? After researching, I found that there seems to be some controversy regarding Roche's antiviral medication.
I would like to seek your advice.

Lele, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/10

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello: The main side effects of K Influenza are headaches and nausea; very rarely, it can cause hepatitis, rashes, gastrointestinal bleeding, and mental suppression.
Insomnia is not listed as a common side effect in the literature; I suspect that the nasal decongestant may be causing the insomnia.
Wishing you health and happiness! Sincerely, Dr.
Pei Ren-Sheng, Pediatric Attending Physician.

Reply Date: 2017/05/10

More Info

When it comes to treating influenza in children, particularly with antiviral medications like the one mentioned (克流感, or oseltamivir), it is generally recommended to complete the full course of the medication, which is typically five days. This is important for several reasons:
1. Effectiveness: Antiviral medications are designed to reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms. Completing the full course ensures that the medication can effectively combat the virus. Stopping the medication early may allow the virus to continue replicating, potentially leading to a resurgence of symptoms or complications.

2. Resistance: Incomplete courses of antiviral medications can contribute to the development of drug-resistant strains of the virus. This is a significant concern in the treatment of viral infections, as resistance can make future infections harder to treat.

3. Symptom Management: While it is understandable that the child is experiencing insomnia, which can be distressing, it is essential to differentiate whether the insomnia is a direct side effect of the medication or a result of the flu itself. Flu symptoms can include fever, body aches, and general malaise, all of which can disrupt sleep. If the insomnia persists, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss alternative symptom management strategies.

4. Monitoring Side Effects: The mention of insomnia as a potential side effect of the medication is noteworthy. While it is not commonly reported, individual responses to medications can vary. If the child is experiencing significant sleep disturbances, it may be beneficial to discuss this with the prescribing physician. They may consider adjusting the dosage or timing of the medication or suggest supportive measures to help with sleep.

5. Rest and Recovery: Rest is crucial for recovery from any illness, including the flu. If the child is unable to sleep well due to medication side effects, it is essential to address this issue. In some cases, non-pharmacological interventions such as creating a calming bedtime routine, ensuring a comfortable sleep environment, and limiting screen time before bed can help improve sleep quality.

In summary, while it is important for children to complete the full course of antiviral medication for influenza, it is equally important to monitor for side effects and address any issues that may arise, such as insomnia. Parents should maintain open communication with healthcare providers to ensure that their child's treatment plan is effective and comfortable. If there are ongoing concerns about the medication or the child's symptoms, seeking a second opinion or discussing alternative treatments may be warranted.

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