![]() ![]() It is inexplicable that despite the lack of scientifically robust data on efficacy and safety of Oseltamivir, reputed organizations like World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), EMA, US FDA not only recommended the drug in question for treatment and prophylaxis of influenza but its stockpiling as well. A recent Cochrane review and a series of articles in British Medical Journal (BMJ) have revealed the truth behind oseltamivir success story, which incidentally is one of the highest revenue earners for Roche. Serious adverse events were first reported during post-marketing surveillance from Japan, UK, and subsequently from other places although most of the published articles did not report them. This article takes a comprehensive relook on the subject, and we proceed to suggest some ways and means to avoid a similar situation in the future. Although many reviewers have labeled the Tamiflu saga as a “costly mistake,” the episode leaves us with some important lessons. The recommendations for stockpiling the said drug as given by various international organizations viz WHO have also been put to scrutiny. A recent Cochrane review and related articles have questioned the risk-benefit ratio of the drug, besides raising doubts about the regulatory decision of approving it. Serious Adverse Events, especially neuropsychiatric events associated with Tamiflu started getting reported leading to a cascade of questions on clinical utility of this drug. In 20, the looming fear of pandemic flu led to recommendation by prominent regulatory bodies such as World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, European Medicines Agency and others for its use in treatment and prophylaxis of influenza, and it's stockpiling as a measure to tide over the crisis. Majority of them were funded by Roche, which also first marketed and promoted this drug. A number of randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis emphasized a favorable efficacy and safety profile. Sometimes doctors will want to fill the prescription over the phone instead of having you in the office where you’ll expose other people.Ĭopyright 2020 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.Oseltamivir (Tamiflu), a neuraminidase inhibitor, was approved for seasonal flu by US Food and Drug Administration in 1999. ![]() Hacker said that for people needing antivirals, you must begin within 48 hours of feeling symptoms in order for the drug to be effective. You also want to make sure you call your doctor right away if you think you have the flu. Wipe down the common surfaces where people frequently touch.ĥ. Wash your hands with soap and water or use antibacterial gel as often as you can.Ĥ. Always make sure you’re keeping your hands clean. ![]() Instead of coughing in your hands, which then can spread germs, it’s best to cough into the elbow of your sleeve.ģ. The sick person in the house should wear a mask to keep the rest of the people in the home shielded from the virus.Ģ. Hacker provided these tips to help you avoid catching the flu.ġ. Since the flu can kill the age group in question, Hacker said parents need to take a lot of precautions heading into peak season to avoid the flu entirely. “The benefits outweigh the risks of taking Tamiflu, especially among those that are kids or elderly patients or those who are immune-compromised,” Hacker said. Instead, she tells patients the pros outweigh the cons. Nurse practitioner Alex Hacker from CVS Minute Clinic said the side effect can happen but she isn’t convinced that the antiviral is entirely to blame since a high fever may cause the same symptoms. The Tamiflu website reads, “People with the flu, particularly children and adolescents, may be at an increased risk of seizure, confusion, or abnormal behavior early during their illness.” Their warning claims taking Tamiflu can cause children to “ hear voices” or experience a drastic change in personality. The first thing you’re supposed to do when you feel symptoms is start taking an antiviral, but a rare side effect has some parents warning people to avoid the drugs. The virus usually spikes in February and kills tens of thousands of people each year. ![]() HOUSTON – The peak of flu season is upon us. ![]()
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