Individuals who may have a reaction to the flu vaccine or when recommended by their physician. Neuraminidase inhibitors are a new class of antiviral drugs that inhibit both influenza A and B viruses. Zanamivir is approved for treatment of uncomplicated acute illness caused by influenza infection in persons aged 12 years old or older who have been symptomatic for no more than 2 days. Oseltamivir is approved for treatment of uncomplicated illness caused by influenza infection in adults aged 18 years old or older who have been symptomatic for no more than 2 days. The recommended duration of treatment with either zanamivir or oseltamivir is 5 days.
All antiviral medications have possible secondary side effects and complications.
A physician must closely monitor each patient to prevent any respiratory, central nervous system, neuropsychiatric, epileptic, renal, gastrointestinal or other unexpected medical conditions. If a patient is seen at my practice, without having a flu vaccine, I will begin prophylactic treatment with an antiviral drug such as a neuraminase inhibitor based on the patient's symptoms. Currently, we have available a new rapid detection influenza test which provides diagnostic results within 15 minutes. If this test is not available, it is important to obtain sputum specimens for culture, but not wait on their results to begin the antiviral medication. Once a flu shot is accessible, prescribe it during or after the medication regime, preferably within a month of the first diagnosis.