The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 269 No 7223 p667
9 November 2002

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NICE: National Institute for Clinical Excellence (www.nice.org.uk)

New antiviral available to treat influenza

The antiviral oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is now available for the treatment and prevention of influenza (see p673).

The drug, which is a prodrug of a selective inhibitor of neuraminidase enzymes, is indicated for treatment of influenza in adults and children aged one year and over who present with symptoms typical of influenza when influenza is circulating in the community. It has been shown to be effective when treatment is started within two days of the onset of symptoms.

Oseltamivir is also licensed for prevention in adults and adolescents aged 13 years or over following contact with a case of clinically diagnosed influenza. The summary of product characteristics states that "the appropriate use of Tamiflu for prevention of influenza should be determined on a case-by-case basis by the circumstances and the population requiring protection."

Manufacturer Roche told The Journal that it intends formally to launch the product at the same time as the National Institute for Clinical Excellence issues guidance on its use. This will give GPs and other prescribers clear recommendations on drug therapy for the treatment and prevention of influenza, the company says.

Oseltamivir is available in a capsule formulation, but an oral suspension is expected later this month.