Final answer:
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is used for the treatment and prophylaxis of influenza A by inhibiting the neuraminidase enzyme, reducing the spread of the virus and shortening the duration of flu symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nicholas has been diagnosed with type A influenza, and the appropriate prescribing of oseltamivir (Tamiflu) would include using it for treatment and prophylaxis of influenza A. Oseltamivir is an inhibitor of the influenza virus neuraminidase enzyme, which is essential for the release of newly formed influenza viruses from the infected cell. By blocking this enzyme, oseltamivir prevents the virus from detaching from the host cell, thereby limiting the spread of the virus from infected to uninfected cells. This can reduce the duration of flu symptoms by 1 or 2 days, although it is not a cure that prevents symptoms entirely. The medication is administered orally and is most effective when taken at the onset of symptoms.