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Definition of oseltamivir
oseltamivir
/oʊˌsɛlˈtæm.ɪ.vɪr/
o · sel · tam · i · vir
oseltamivir Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
12
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
oseltamivir Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
An oral antiviral medication belonging to the class of neuraminidase inhibitors, used primarily to treat and prevent influenza A and influenza B virus infections.
Example
"The doctor prescribed oseltamivir to help reduce the severity and duration of the patient's flu symptoms."
Word Nuance & Usage
While often referred to colloquially by its brand name (Tamiflu), oseltamivir is strictly an antiviral medication; it is frequently confused with antibiotics but is completely ineffective against bacterial infections or the common cold.
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined as an International Nonproprietary Name (INN). The suffix '-amivir' is a standard pharmacological stem used to designate neuraminidase inhibitor antivirals.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Oseltamivir. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/oseltamivir