As flu season approaches, many people experience the gritty challenges of fever, sore throat, and cough. While Tamiflu remains a common antiviral treatment for combating the flu, it is important for patients to know that they have additional options at their disposal.
Xofluza, a one-dose pill alternative approved for individuals aged five and older, offers a viable option for those who may struggle with some of the side effects associated with Tamiflu. Antiviral medications like Tamiflu and Xofluza are most effective when administered within two days of symptom onset, underscoring the necessity of having multiple treatment options readily accessible.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend four antiviral drugs for treating flu: Tamiflu (oseltamivir), Xofluza (baloxavir), Relenza (zanamivir), and Rapivab (peramivir). Tamiflu is prescribed for those aged two weeks and older, taken for five days either as a liquid or capsule. Without insurance, Tamiflu typically costs around $50, with common side effects including nausea and vomiting.
In contrast, Xofluza is given as a single-dose tablet, which can also treat or prevent the flu. Although it may cost up to $200 without insurance, patients have options to mitigate costs through available coupons. Both medications aim to lessen flu symptoms duration, and a 2023 study indicated that patients experienced fewer instances of vomiting with Xofluza compared to Tamiflu.
Each medication presents unique advantages. Notably, Xofluza can significantly reduce the duration of viral shedding, meaning that individuals will be less contagious to those around them more quickly than with Tamiflu. This could be vital in preventing the spread within households.
Other viable options include Rapivab, an intravenous solution for ages six months and older, averaging a steep cost of around $1,000 without insurance, and Relenza, which comes as an inhaled powder and is approved for people ages seven and older. Relenza can also be prescribed for preventive purposes to children aged five and older, priced around $90 without insurance.
The rise in popularity of Xofluza can be attributed to its single-dose nature and fewer side effects, according to Dr. Ari Brown, a Texas-based pediatrician. However, accessibility remains a concern, as availability can vary based on regional demand and supply fluctuations.
Despite the upsides to Xofluza, healthcare professionals, including Dr. William Schaffner from Vanderbilt University, caution about the potential for the influenza virus to develop resistance to the medication, particularly with children. The consensus among experts remains that Tamiflu is more frequently recommended, particularly for hospitalized or more severely ill patients.
Nonetheless, Xofluza is noted to be particularly effective against influenza B and is generally well-tolerated by patients. With ongoing developments in research and a focus on potentially combining antiviral treatments for severe cases, the flu landscape may continue to evolve, providing patients with more tailored treatment options in the future.
As the healthcare community continues to adapt and respond to flu outbreaks, having multiple antiviral medications available ensures patients can select an option that best fits their treatment needs, improving their chances of a quicker recovery.