With flu cases surging across the United States this season, many are turning to antiviral medications like Tamiflu to help manage symptoms and speed up recovery, the New York Times reports.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that there have already been at least 12 million flu infections, resulting in over 160,000 hospitalizations and 6,600 deaths. As the flu continues to spread, understanding when and how to use antiviral medications like Tamiflu can make a significant difference in managing the illness.
Tamiflu (oseltamivir) is effective against both influenza A and B viruses. The medication, available as either a pill or liquid, works by blocking the flu virus from multiplying in the body, which can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. While it doesn’t offer an instant cure, it can reduce recovery time by about a day—a benefit that can help individuals return to their routines sooner. Additionally, Tamiflu may help prevent complications, such as pneumonia, by limiting the spread of the virus within the body.
However, experts emphasize that Tamiflu is not a miracle cure.
“It doesn’t make you instantly better, able to leap tall buildings,” said Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist.
The drug’s effectiveness is also debated in some areas, particularly regarding its impact on preventing flu deaths or hospitalizations. Still, early administration of Tamiflu may reduce the risk of severe outcomes, especially in high-risk individuals.
Not everyone with the flu needs Tamiflu. The CDC recommends the antiviral medication for individuals who are at high risk for flu complications, including:
- Adults 65 and older
- Children under 2 years of age
- Pregnant women
- Immunocompromised individuals
- People with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart and lung disease
Doctors also prescribe Tamiflu to those who are hospitalized or seriously ill from the flu. In certain settings, such as nursing homes, Tamiflu may be given to all individuals to help prevent the spread of the virus during an outbreak. Additionally, the CDC recommends Tamiflu for those infected with avian influenza (bird flu) or those who have been exposed to the virus.
Like all medications, Tamiflu can cause side effects, although they are typically mild. The most common side effects include nausea and vomiting, affecting about 10 to 20 percent of users. There have been rare reports of more severe side effects, such as hallucinations and delirium, particularly in children. However, it’s important to note that similar symptoms can be caused by the flu itself, and health experts agree that Tamiflu is generally safe.
“The drug has been out for a long time, and we’ve got a really good handle on its safety profile,” said Dr. John Bradley, a medical director of infectious diseases.
Tamiflu is not the only antiviral medication available. The CDC also recommends three other drugs for this flu season:
- Relenza: An inhaled drug for individuals aged 7 and older who don’t have asthma or other respiratory issues.
- Rapivab: An intravenous medication for people aged 6 months and older.
- Xofluza: A pill for individuals aged 12 and older, or for children aged 5 to 11 who do not have chronic health conditions. This drug is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
While Tamiflu is the most commonly prescribed, these alternatives can be helpful for individuals who cannot take Tamiflu or when it is unavailable. Xofluza is often favored for its single-dose regimen, making it a convenient option for some patients.
While antiviral medications like Tamiflu can aid in treating the flu, prevention is always the best approach. The CDC strongly recommends getting a flu shot, as it can reduce the likelihood of developing severe flu symptoms and decrease the risk of complications or death. According to Dr. Sean O’Leary, a professor of pediatric infectious diseases, it’s never too late to get vaccinated. Given the choice between taking Tamiflu after contracting the flu or receiving a flu shot beforehand, Dr. O’Leary says:
“I would take the influenza vaccine 100 times out of 100.”
