New treatment for flu!
On October 24, 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new antiviral influenza treatment, Xofluza (baloxavir marboxil). It’s the first new antiviral flu treatment approved by the FDA in nearly 20 years. Since the current flu season has already started across the country and many people are expected to be affected, the timing of this new drug treatment could not be any better. It is a safe and effective treatment taken as a single oral dose. It is approved for the treatment of acute uncomplicated influenza (flu) in patients 12 years of age and older who have had symptoms for no more than 48 hours. The most common side effects are diarrhea and bronchitis. It may reduce the duration of flu symptoms such as fever and muscle aches and theoretically reduce the incidence of complications such as pneumonia.
Current treatment options include Tamiflu (oseltamivir) and Relenza (zanamivir). Tamiflu is taken orally twice a day for 5 days and Relenza is an inhaled powder.Although there are multiple treatment options for flu, there is no substitute for annual flu vaccine which is best taken by end of October.
Disclaimer: The information is intended to provide general education for patients and their families. The information provided does not constitute medical or health care advice for any individual and is not a substitute for medical and other professional advice and service.
