- Guidance on the use of antiviral drugs
Evaluation and registration of antiviral agents is undertaken at a national level by local authorities. There are no international regulations. A small number countries have issued national guidance on the use of antiviral drugs for both the treatment and prophylaxis of influenza virus infection. Links to published guidance can be found below.
Published research: Review of European recommendations for antiviral use
A study reviewed recommendations for use of antivirals for treatment and prevention of seasonal influenza in the European Union countries:
Stephenson I, Clark TW, Pareek M (2008). Antiviral treatment and prevention of seasonal influenza: a comparative review of recommendations in the European Union. J Clin Virol. 2008 Jul;42(3):244-8.
The authors identified recommendations in eight EU countries. They concluded that there were significant differences on antiviral use between countries, and recommended the development of Europe-wide guidance.
The European Centre for Disease Control (ECDC) published an online summary of the paper and response to the study findings.
National Guidance on the Use of Antiviral Drugs
England – issued by the National Centre for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). NICE is an independent organisation that produces guidance on health technologies and clinical practice in England and Wales, and guidance on public health in England.
Flu prevention – amantadine and oseltamivir
Flu treatment – zanamivir (review), amantadine and oseltamivir
United States of America
Antiviral therapy and prophylaxis for influenza in children – issued by the American Academy of Paediatrics
Prevention and control of influenza – Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices (ACIP) 2008
The websites listed above are not under the control of the Neuraminidase Inhibitor Susceptibility Network, and NISN is not responsible for their content. These links do not serve as an endorsement by NISN of any of the sites, they are provided solely for the convenience of our users. Please contact us with the details of any URL changes.
