FDA approves first generic version of tamiflu

(HealthDay)—The first generic version of the flu medication Tamiflu has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) is used to treat patients 2 weeks of age and older who have had flu symptoms for no more than 48 hours. It's also used for the prevention of flu in patients 1 year of age and older. The FDA approved Tamiflu in 1999.

Oseltamivir phosphate does not take the place of seasonal flu vaccination, the FDA emphasized.

The agency also said oseltamivir phosphate does not treat or prevent illnesses caused by infections other than the flu virus, and does not prevent bacterial infections that may happen with the flu.