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Doubts cast on influenza medication

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Medical experts are questioning why so much was spent on developing and stocking up on influenza drugs. The tablet Tamiflu and nasal spray Relenza are prescribed by doctors to treat the flu. Governments have stockpiled the drugs as a precaution against an influenza epidemic. New research casts doubt on their effectiveness and manufacturers' claims. A non-profit healthcare research network and the British Medical Journal published a report based on clinical trials of the drugs. The study questions whether governments should be spending money on the drugs.

The research says the drugs shorten the symptoms of influenza by half a day. However, there is insufficient evidence about whether they reduce the chances of hospitalization or complications. Researchers said Tamiflu increased the risk of nausea and vomiting and could cause headaches and depression. The makers said the research excluded "real-world data". The research said Relenza was the same as gargling with salt water or taking over-the-counter pain relievers. Its maker said: "When used appropriately, in the right patient, it can reduce the duration of flu symptoms."