Pharmacotherapy Newsletter

Volume 1, Issue 16, 05/04/2009

Question

How can the antiviral, oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) work to prevent or treat swine-origin influenza A strain (H1N1) viral infection?

Answer

The initial concern surrounding severe disease following the spread of the "swine flu" influenza A strain (H1N1) virus has caused many to wonder how the world will contain the spread of the virus, and treat those that come to need medical attention.  Although severe disease caused by swine-origin influenza A H1N1 virus seems to be less frequent than initially feared, the virus has already spread to several countries.  Even if the current wave of H1N1 infections wanes, the virus could return during a future influenza season.