Which patients should be offered oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) or zanamivir (Relenza®)?
Antiviral treatment should be considered for confirmed, probable or suspected cases of swine-origin influenza A (H1N1) virus infection. The Novel 2009 H1N1 virus has thus far been sensitive to both oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) and zanamivir (Relenza®). Treatment of hospitalized patients and patients at higher risk for influenza complications should be prioritized. Evidence of benefit is greatest if treatment is started within 48 hours of symptom onset. Anti-viral drugs are less effective when given 48 hours after the onset of symptoms; thus, many patients presenting to the ED will already be beyond the time window for effectiveness and should not be offered the drug for mild illness. See: http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/recommendations.htm.
