Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Xofluza (baloxavir marboxil)
Tamiflu (oseltamivir)
Xofluza (baloxavir marboxil)
Tamiflu (oseltamivir)
Summary of Xofluza vs. Tamiflu
Summary for Antiviral
Prescription only
Xofluza (baloxavir marboxil) is an antiviral medication. It's used to treat and sometimes prevent the flu with a single dose. It's taken within 48 hours at the start of flu symptoms or exposure to someone who has the flu. Xofluza (baloxavir marboxil) comes as tablets and a liquid for people ages 5 years and older. Common side effects include sinusitis, diarrhea, and nausea. There's currently no generic version of this medication available.
Summary for Antiviral
Prescription only
Tamiflu (oseltamivir) works well to treat the flu, but you have to take your first dose within 48 hours of the start of your flu symptoms. It can also help prevent the flu if you've recently been in close contact with someone who has the flu. Kids as young as 2 weeks old can take Tamiflu (oseltamivir), but keep in mind that the pediatric dosing is different than adult dosing. It's only available with a prescription (not available over the counter), so don't wait to see your provider if you start feeling sick. This medication comes as a brand or generic capsule or fruit-flavored liquid. Tamiflu (oseltamivir) can cause side effects like nausea and vomiting.
Indications of Xofluza vs. Tamiflu
Indications for
•Flu treatment for people 5 years and older with flu symptoms for no more than 48 hours
•Flu prevention for people 5 years and older who've been in contact with someone who has the flu
Indications for
•Flu treatment (flu types A and B) in people 2 weeks of age and older
•Flu prevention (flu types A and B) in people 1 year of age and older
Pros and Cons of Xofluza vs. Tamiflu
Pros and Const for Antiviral
Pros
•Can help treat and prevent flu infection
•Can help you feel better from the flu in about 2 days
•Generally well-tolerated with few side effects
Cons
•Must take within 48 hours of the start of flu symptoms or exposure
•Not approved for children younger than 5 years old
•Requires a prescription from your healthcare provider
•Only works if you take it within 2 days (48 hours) from when you first felt flu symptoms to treat (or when you were first in contact with someone who has the flu to prevent)
Common Side Effects of Xofluza vs. Tamiflu
Common Side Effects for
Adults and adolescents:
•Diarrhea (3%)
•Bronchitis (3%)
•Nausea (2%)
•Sinusitis (swelling in the sinuses, 2%)
Children 5 to 11 years old:
•Diarrhea (5%)
•Vomiting (5%)
Common Side Effects for
For flu treatment
•Nausea (10%)
•Vomiting (8%)
For flu prevention
•Headache (17%)
•Nausea (8%)
Warnings of Xofluza vs. Tamiflu
Common Side Effects for
•Allergic reaction
•Risk of bacterial infections
Common Side Effects for
•Serious skin reactions and allergic reactions
•Unusual behavior and hallucinations
•Reaction with nasal spray flu vaccine
•Risk of bacterial infections
•Hereditary fructose intolerance (for the liquid form)