What antiviral drugs are available for treatment of seasonal and avian influenza?
Category: Antivirals
Answer
Two antiviral drugs in the neuraminidase inhibitors class can reduce the severity and duration of illness caused by influenza: oseltamivir (commercially known as Tamiflu ®) and zanamivir (commercially known as Relenza ®). These drugs are most effective when they are taken shortly after the onset of illness (e.g., within 48 hours of symptom onset). Like all prescription medications, both Tamiflu® and Relenza® may cause side effects. For additional information, see the package inserts approved by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (HHS/FDA) for oseltamivir and zanamivir or talk with your healthcare provider.
Two other antiviral drugs in the adamantane class, amantadine and rimantadine, also are approved by FDA. However, because of high rates of antiviral drug resistance and the likelihood of further resistance developing during treatment of susceptible viruses, these drugs are not recommended for pandemic preparedness.
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Last updated: 1/13/2009
