| Relenza
Relenza (zanamivir) is an FDA approved
anti-viral drug, for persons aged 7 years and older for the treatment
of uncomplicated influenza virus. Relenza is used to treat type
A and B influenza, the two most responsible for flu epidemics. Patients
needed to start treatment within two days of the onset of symptoms
for the drug to be effective.
Relenza is a powder that is inhaled
twice a day for five days from a breath-activated plastic device
called a Disk haler. Patients need to be properly instructed on
the usage of the device, including a demonstration if required
Relenza is a neuraminidase inhibitor
that prevents the spread of influenza A and B viruses, the viruses
responsible for the "flu." Neuraminidase is an enzyme
that is required by the influenza viruses to spread from infected
cells to healthy cells. Zanamivir blocks the action of neuraminidase
thereby reducing the spread of influenza. Since the spread of the
viruses is prevented, the symptoms and duration of infection are
reduced. On average, zanamivir reduces the duration of symptoms
by one day if treatment is started within forty-eight hours after
symptoms begin.
The most frequent side effects are
headaches, diarrhea, nausea, cough, vomiting and dizziness. Ear,
nose and throat infections may occur. Relenza has not been shown
to be effective, and may carry risk, in patients with severe asthma
or a lung condition called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Some patients with mild or moderate asthma experienced shortness
of breath after using Relenza.
Some patients have had wheezing
or serious breathing problems when they used Relenza. Relenza is
not effective for treating influenza in people with history of asthma
or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Relenza is thus not generally
recommended for people with chronic respiratory disease. Anyone
who develops bronchospasm worsening respiratory symptoms such as
wheezing and shortness of breath should stop taking the drug and
call their health-care provider.
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