Tamiflu otc
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Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) Over-the-Counter (OTC) Availability
Introduction to Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)
Tamiflu, known generically as oseltamivir, is a neuraminidase inhibitor widely used for the treatment and prevention of influenza. It is effective against various strains of the influenza virus, including avian influenza, and is approved for use in adults, adolescents, and children aged one year and older2.
Safety Concerns and Behavioral Effects
There have been safety concerns regarding the use of oseltamivir, particularly in adolescents. Some Japanese teenagers exhibited abnormal behaviors after taking the drug, raising questions about its safety profile. Research indicates that oseltamivir can alter neuronal function and behavior, especially when combined with substances like ethanol. In animal studies, the active form of oseltamivir, oseltamivir carboxylate (OTC), was found to affect synaptic plasticity and behavior when combined with neurostimulants such as caffeine and ephedrine1.
Efficacy in Influenza Treatment and Prevention
Oseltamivir has been shown to be effective in treating and preventing influenza infections. It is particularly valuable during influenza pandemics, where it can be used to mitigate the spread of the virus. However, it is important to adhere to the approved dosages and treatment durations to avoid the risk of viral resistance. Studies have demonstrated that both treatment and prophylactic regimens of oseltamivir are well-tolerated at the approved doses2.
Stockpiling and Pandemic Preparedness
In the context of a pandemic, the availability of oseltamivir is crucial. Governments and health authorities need to include oseltamivir in their pandemic plans and ensure adequate stockpiling of the drug. This preparation is essential to guarantee that sufficient supplies are available during the initial outbreaks of a pandemic2.
Conclusion
While oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is a critical antiviral medication for managing influenza, its safety, particularly in younger populations, and the potential for behavioral side effects warrant careful consideration. Its efficacy in treating and preventing influenza is well-documented, making it a vital component of pandemic preparedness plans. Ensuring proper stockpiling and adherence to recommended dosages will help maximize its benefits and minimize risks.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Synaptic and behavioral interactions of oseltamivir (Tamiflu) with neurostimulants
Oseltamivir and neurostimulants may alter synaptic plasticity, contributing to behavioral changes associated with the drug.
Non-RCT
Animal StudyOseltamivir (Tamiflu) and its potential for use in the event of an influenza pandemic.
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is effective in treating and preventing influenza in adults, adolescents, and children, and is also active against avian influenza virus strains.
Highly CitedMutation-induced loop opening and energetics for binding of tamiflu to influenza N8 neuraminidase.
Tamiflu's binding to influenza N8 neuraminidase is influenced by mutations, which can lead to drug resistance by decreasing binding free energy and increasing active site surface area.
In Vitro StudyPotential Risks Associated with the Proposed Widespread Use of Tamiflu
Widespread use of Tamiflu during a pandemic may increase the risk of antiviral resistance and ecotoxicologic risks in affected nations' waterways.
Rigorous JournalHighly CitedImpact of long-term parental exposure to Tamiflu metabolites on the development medaka offspring (Oryzias latipes).
Long-term parental exposure to Tamiflu metabolites can reduce hatchability and embryonic development in medaka offspring, but has no adverse effects on adult health or reproduction.
Second generation catalytic asymmetric synthesis of Tamiflu: allylic substitution route.
This study presents a more practical second-generation catalytic asymmetric synthesis of Tamiflu, an important antiinfluenza drug, using an allylic substitution route.
Highly CitedEnantioselective Synthesis of Oseltamivir Phosphate (Tamiflu) via the Iron-Catalyzed Stereoselective Olefin Diazidation.
This iron-catalyzed method efficiently synthesizes Tamiflu at gram-scale, with potential for large-scale production, and is safe for use in pharmaceutical production.
Court sides with generics company over Tamiflu patent
The court agreed with Natco's claim that Gilead committed obviousness-type double patenting, potentially allowing it to file for regulatory approval of generic oseltamivir 22 months earlier than expected.
Efficient formal synthesis of oseltamivir phosphate (Tamiflu) with inexpensive D-ribose as the starting material.
This efficient 12 step synthesis of Tamiflu, using inexpensive D-ribose as a starting material, features a concise alternative route without protecting groups and efficient RCM reaction.
Do general practice patients who are prescribed Tamiflu actually take it?
GPs in inner London found that only a small percentage of patients with suspected swine flu actually completed the Tamiflu course, suggesting that oseltamivir is not easily accessible for patients.
Observational Study