What anti-flu drugs treat H1N1 flu?
The two prescription antiviral (anti-flu) medications that treat H1N1 flu are: • Oseltamivir (oss-el-TAM-eh-veer), brand name Tamiflu®; comes in pill or liquid form. • Zanamivir (zan-AM-i-veer), brand name Relenza®; comes in an inhaler; people who have underlying lung disease such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should not take zanamivir. If you have a lung condition, remind your health care provider so that you will receive the proper medication. These medications work by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in the body. While these drugs work best if started within 48 hours after the beginning of symptoms, they may be helpful beyond that especially for people who have severe symptoms or who are at high risk for flu complications. There are other prescription anti-flu drugs, but they do not work against H1N1 flu. Important reminders about anti-flu drugs and other medications: • Only take Tamiflu® or Relenza® if your health care provider prescribes it for you.
