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The neuraminidase inhibitor oseltamivir was FDA-approved for treatment of the flu based on studies showing efficacy primarily in healthy young adult outpatients. How well does the drug work for more complicated patients with more severe infection?
In an industry-supported trial, Canadian researchers prospectively followed 327 adults hospitalized with confirmed influenza during the 2005 and 2006 flu seasons. Median age was 77; 75% had at least one chronic underlying illness, and 71% had received the influenza vaccine in the fall preceding illness.
Overall, 9 out of 10 patients received antibacterial treatment during hospitalization; 103 (31%) received oseltamivir at the discretion of a clinical team. There were no significant differences in ag…