How Effective is Oseltamivir?

Discussion Oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) is an oral neuraminidase inhibitor of influenza viruses types A and B. It first came on the market in Switzerland in 1999 and currently is used around the world along with other neuraminidase inhibitors to treat seasonal and pandemic influenza. Oseltamivir is easily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, and circulates to the liver where it is converted to its active metabolite oseltamivir carboxylate (OC). In adults approximately 75% of the oral medication is converted and it then travels to the upper and lower respiratory tracts. Unchanged oseltamivir is eliminated in the urine. OC “inhibits the conserved active site of the neuraminidase enzymes that are present as major surface antigens on all types of influenza viruses. As neuraminidase is essential for the release of progency virions from infected cells, inhibiting this enzyme limits the duration and severity of the infection.” OC half-life is about 1-2 hours and the maximal concentrations occur ~ 3-4 hours after administration. Children < 12 years of age clear OC faster than teenagers and adults resulting in a lower drug exposure. Oseltamivir is approved for use for treatment of uncomplicated influenza especially for those at increased risk such as infants, pregnant women and those with chronic cardiac, respiratory or metabolic problems, for severe or progressive influenza, and for those that are immunosuppressed. It can also be used for post-exposure prophylaxis...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news