H1N1 Influenza Pandemic

Question 1

What are the 2 main treatments for H1N1?

Answer 1

1. Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)
2. Zanamivir (Relenza)

Question 2

How is Oseltamivir taken?

Answer 2

Orally

Question 3

How is Zanamivir taken?

Answer 3

Inhaled or IV

Question 4

How do Oseltamivir and Zanamivir work?

Answer 4

They are neuramidase inhibitors

Question 5

What is the main side effect of Zanamivir?

Answer 5

Bronchospasm in asthmatics

Question 6

What are the main side effects of Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)?

Answer 6

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Headaches

Question 7

A patient is prescribed zanamivir (Relenza) for suspected influenza. Which one of the following underlying problems may increase the likelihood of side-effects?

• A history of aspirin sensitivity
• Epilepsy
• Asthma
• Renal impairment
• Concurrent use with drugs that prolong the QT interval

Answer 7

Asthma

It can induce bronchospasm in asthmatics

Question 8

A 14-year-old boy presents with pyrexia, myalgia and lethargy. Clinical examination reveals a temperature of 38.8ºC. He is haemodynamically stable and his chest is clear. Given the current pandemic a presumptive diagnosis of H1N1 influenza is made and oseltamivir is prescribed. What is the most likely side-effect he will experience?

• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Bronchospasm
• Nausea
• Rash

Answer 8

Nausea,

(GI symptoms are the most common side effect of Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)

Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and headaches