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Tamiflu Useless Against Dominant Flu Strain

Substitute isn't safe for everyone

By Wesley Oliver,  Newser Staff

Posted Feb 7, 2009 2:26 PM CST
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(Newser) – The dominant flu strain circulating in much of the US is nearly 100% resistant to Tamiflu, the most commonly used antiviral, the Los Angeles Times reports. Despite a milder than usual flu season, the resistance is still causing concern, and the CDC is advising doctors to substitute Tamiflu with Relenza, another antiviral, or mix it with an older one.

Tamiflu, which is the main emergency drug stockpiled by the feds, was championed for its decreased risk of resistance when it and Relenza were introduced 10 years ago. Scientists believe the Tamiflu-resistant strain, type A H1N1, stemmed from a naturally developing mutation, not from overuse. Unlike Tamiflu, Relenza must be inhaled and isn’t safe for the young or the elderly.

A box of Tamiflu is shown in this Feb. 9, 2007 file photo.
A box of Tamiflu is shown in this Feb. 9, 2007 file photo.   (AP Photo/ Eugene Hoshiko, File)
In this photo provided by GlaxoSmithKline, a Relenza Diskhaler is shown.
In this photo provided by GlaxoSmithKline, a Relenza Diskhaler is shown.   (AP Photo/GlaxoSmithKline)
Each flu season, several types of flu viruses circulate, and various ones can dominate in different regions and times.
Each flu season, several types of flu viruses circulate, and various ones can dominate in different regions and times.   (Shutter Stock)
Tamiflu, the mainstay of the federal government's emergency drug stockpile, no longer works for the dominant flu strain circulating in much of the country.
Tamiflu, the mainstay of the federal government's emergency drug stockpile, no longer works for the dominant flu strain circulating in much of the country.   (AP Photo/Michael Probst, file)
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention • drug resistant • influenza • Tamiflu • Relenza • flu medications

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