Do antiviral medications work against H1N1 flu?
Two prescription medications are used to treat the flu: oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) and zanamivir (Relenza®). If the novel H1N1 flu becomes widespread, antiviral drugs may be in short supply. In that case, the drugs may be given first to people who have been hospitalized or are at high risk of severe illness from flu. The drugs work best if given within two days of onset, but may be given later if illness is severe or for those at a high risk for complications. Antiviral drugs are not recommended as a preventive measure, due to the high probability that patients will develop resistance to antiviral medications.
