What is Xofluza and How Does it Work?

If the past is any indication, millions of Americans will become infected with the flu this year, according to the CDC. Although the flu can lead to serious complications, requiring hospitalization, most individuals who get the flu will recover at home, often with the help of flu medication such as Xofluza. So, what is Xofluza, and how does it work?

What is Xofluza?

Xofluza (baloxavir marboxil) is a medication prescribed for people who are 12 years of age and older who have had flu symptoms for 48 hours or less. Studies show that people who take Xofluza recover an average of 2.3 days. Xofluza cannot prevent the flu, but it reduces how long you feel bad. The catch is you have to take it within the first 48 hours that you notice symptoms.

Cost of Xofluza

If you do catch the flu and are prescribed an antiviral flu medication such as Xofluza, be sure to check RxSaver for up to 80% of possible savings on this and other antiviral medications. RxSaver coupons are designed to be used without insurance. For some individuals who have insurance, using the coupon may bring the price of Xofluza down to less than your copay.

The cost of Xofluza without insurance starts at $165.37* for 40 mg and 2 tablets using an RxSaver coupon.

How does Xofluza work?

Xofluza belongs to a class of drugs called antivirals, which are medications used to treat infections caused by viruses. Because the flu is caused by a virus and not bacteria, it’s important to understand that Xofluza does not work against infections caused by bacteria. So, if you come down with a cold during or after you get the flu, Xofluza won’t help to fight those symptoms.

Xofluza is indicated for acute influenza, to shorten the length of sickness, and to reduce the severity of flu symptoms. Xofluza is not indicated as a flu prevention medication, and should not be used in place of an annual flu shot.

Xofluza Blocks Viral Replication

For the flu virus to spread, the virus needs to make special proteins that allow it to reproduce—a process called replication. Xofluza blocks the cap-dependent endonuclease activity of the virus, thereby preventing replication of the virus. Fittingly, Xofluza is a specific type of antiviral known as a PA endonuclease inhibitor.

Xofluza Works with One Dose

Xofluza works if taken within 48 hours of showing symptoms of the flu. It is prescribed as a one-time dose and comes in tablets of either 40 mg or 80 mg. The lower dose is prescribed for people who weigh at least 88 pounds but not more than 176 pounds (40 kg to less than 80 kg). If you weigh 176 pounds (80 kg) or more, your doctor will prescribe you the higher dose.

Xofluza Helps You Recover from the Flu Faster

Xofluza is designed to shave several days off flu symptoms. Patients who take Xofluza may experience flu symptoms an average of 2.3 total days, rather than for a week or more.

What are Xofluza side effects?

Most individuals who take Xofluza report few side effects. However, all medications have the potential to cause side effects, and Xofluza is no exception. The most common side effects people who take Xofluza have reported are:

• Diarrhea
• Bronchitis
• Common cold
• Headache
• Nausea

Rare, but serious allergic reactions to Xofluza have also been reported. If you notice signs of an allergic reaction such as a rash, swelling, itching, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, get medical help immediately.

Does Xofluza interact with medications or food?

If you decide to eat at the same time you take Xofluza, you need to be selective about what you eat. That’s because some of the minerals in food, medications, and supplements can interact with Xofluza’s active ingredient. This can lower the concentration of the drug rendering it less effective. In addition, you should speak with your healthcare provider regarding when you had your last flu vaccination, and what type of vaccine you received, before you take Xofluza.

Dairy Products

Steer clear of milk, cheese, or any other foods that might contain dairy or calcium, if you eat at the same time you take Xofluza. If you’re in doubt about whether or not something you’re eating has dairy or calcium, read the label, or contact a pharmacist, who may recommend that you take Xofluza a few hours before or after you decide to eat.

Supplements

Dietary supplements that contain minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, or zinc can also reduce the efficacy of Xofluza. If you are taking dietary supplements that contain these minerals, ask your pharmacist for recommendations about how to take Xofluza and whether it’s right for you.

Antacids and Laxatives

Some antacids and laxatives contain calcium or other minerals that can cause Xofluza to be less effective. If you’re in doubt, avoid taking the antacids or the laxatives at the same time that you take Xofluza, and contact a pharmacist for their recommendation.

Live Attenuated Flu Vaccine (LAIV)

Xofluza may interact with the live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV), but researchers have not yet evaluated concurrent use. If you already received the live, nasal vaccine, talk with your healthcare provider about whether you should take Xofluza.

Stay Healthy this Flu Season by Getting a Flu Shot

The best way to prevent the flu is by getting your annual flu shot. This year in particular, since we are dealing with both flu season and COVID-19, it’s critical that you get your flu shot. The CDC recommends that everyone receive the flu shot by the end of October. If you run late, you should still get the vaccine as it is better to get the flu shot late, than to not get it at all.

Xofluza: 40 mg / 2 tablets

*Lowest online price at national pharmacy chains Costco, CVS, RiteAid, Walgreens and Walmart as of 2/21/2021. Prices vary by location and pharmacy, see RxSaver.com for actual pricing in your area.