ALL ABOUT SWINEFLU..medications

Laboratory testing has found the H1N1 influenza A (swine flu) virus susceptible to the prescription antiviral drugs oseltamivir and zanamivir, and the CDC has issued interim guidance for the use of these drugs to treat and prevent infection with swine influenza viruses.22,23 As part of its preparation for the emergency, the US Department of Homeland Security is releasing 25% of stockpiled antiviral agents (ie, oseltamivir [Tamiflu], zanamivir [Relenza]).
The usual vaccine for influenza administered at the beginning of the flu season is not effective for this viral strain. Also, other antiviral agents (eg, amantadine, rimantadine) are not recommended because of recent resistance to other influenza strains documented over the past several years.
Basic supportive care (ie, hydration, analgesics, cough suppressants) should be prescribed. Empiric antiviral treatment should be considered for confirmed, probable, or suspected cases of H1N1 influenza. Treatment of hospitalized patients and patients at higher risk for influenza complications should be prioritized.
Initiation of antiviral agents within 48 hours of symptom onset is imperative for providing treatment efficacy against influenza virus. In studies of seasonal influenza, evidence for benefits of treatment is strongest when treatment is started within 48 hours of illness onset. However, some studies of treatment of seasonal influenza have indicated benefit, including reductions in mortality or duration of hospitalization, even in patients in whom treatment was started more than 48 hours after illness onset. The recommended duration of treatment is 5 days.22,23
• Prophylaxis with antiviral agents should also be considered in the following individuals (pre-exposure or postexposure):
o Close household contacts of a confirmed or suspected case who are at high risk for complications (eg, chronic medical conditions, persons >65 y or <5 y, pregnant women)
o School children at high risk for complications who have been in close contact with a confirmed or suspected case
o Travelers to Mexico who are at high risk for complications (eg, chronic medical conditions, persons >65 y or <5 y, pregnant women)
o Health care providers or public health workers who were not using appropriate personal protective equipment during close contact with a confirmed or suspected case
• Pre-exposure prophylaxis can be considered in the following persons:
o Any health care provider who is at high risk for complications (eg, persons with chronic medical conditions, adults >65 y, pregnant women)
o Individuals not considered to be at high risk but who are nonetheless traveling to Mexico, first responders, or border workers who are working in areas with confirmed cases