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Antiviral treatment is normally the first line of treatment for the confirmed, probable or suspected cases of swine-origin influenza A (H1N1) virus infection.
Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) with actively works against influenza viruses, including the swine influenza virus. Antiviral drugs are generally used to treat swine flu or to prevent infection with swine flu viruses. 4 influenza antiviral drugs are approved for use in the United States.
- Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)
- Zanamivir (Relenza)
- Amantadine
- Rimantadine (Flumadine)
Laboratory testing conducted on the swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses so far has indicated that the viruses are susceptible to oseltamivir and zanamivir. Antiviral drugs can make the illness milder as well prevent serious influenza complications. However, these antiviral drugs work best when they are started within two days of the onset of the illness. Antiviral drugs can also be used as a preventive measure to protect a person who has been or may be near a person with swine flu.
Antiviral doses recommended for treatment of swine flu A (H1N1) virus infection in adults or children 1 year of age or older are the same as those recommended for seasonal influenza. Moreover, there are vaccines available that can be given to pigs to prevent swine influenza from spreading. There is no vaccine to protect humans from swine flu yet. It is believed that the seasonal influenza vaccine will likely help provide partial protection against swine H3N2, but not swine H1N1 viruses. |
