Resumen

ABAD-SANTOS, F. et al. Efficacy of inhaled zanamivir for the treatment and prevention of influenza. An. Med. Interna (Madrid) [online]. 2001, vol.18, n.2, pp.49-55. ISSN 0212-7199.

The aim of this work is to evaluate the efficacy of zanamivir in the treatment and prevention of influenza. This drug is a neuraminidase inhibitor that is effective against both A and B influenza viruses. Five randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical trials have been published, showing a reduction in the duration of flu symptoms between 1 and 2.5 days. A greater benefit is seen in the patients with influenza-confirmed infection, with fever and when the treatment begins in the first 30-36 hours. For the prevention of influenza, two placebo-controlled clinical trials have been published, where flu incidence wass reduced by 50-67%. The characteristics of zanamivir (efficacy, safety and lack of resistance) make it an appropriate option for subjects not protected by vaccination and for those with high risk of complications.

Palabras clave : Zanamivir; Neuraminidase inhibitors; Antiviral agents; Influenza; Review.

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