The emergence and rapid worldwide spread of the Mexico strain of swine flu (H1N1) virus has caught the world health officials by surprise. As a result, unlike the seasonal flu that comes every year usually during Winter, there is yet no vaccine available to combat the potential new strain of swine flu (H1N1) virus that originated from Mexico.
Until a vaccine has been developed, TAMIFLU (oseltamivir phosphate), one of the anti-retroviral drugs already approved by the US Federal Drug Administration (FDA), has been implemented by the Obama administration as one of its arsenals to combat the fast spreading swine flu (H1N1) epidemic here in the United States.
TAMIFLU, a chemical known scientifically as, Oseltamivir Phosphate, has been shown in laboratory studies to be effective inhibitor of the release of viral particles -- a key step for a virus to complete its life cycle -- to proliferate.
Controlled clinical trials demonstrated that TAMIFLU (oseltamivir) was effective in allieviating the impact of flu virus infection, especially at the early stages. Subsequently, TAMIFLU (oseltamivir) was approved by the US Federal Drug Administration (FDA) as an anti-retroviral drugs to combat flu (influenza) in general.
Word of caution. TAMIFLU is a prescription drug, for good reasons, and must be taken only upon consultation with your doctor. There are potential complications, depending on your health, age, and other conditions.
More significant, rampant use of anti-retroviral drugs could lead to the evolution of influenza viruses that are resistant to the drugs. The development of biological resistance has been demonstrated in response to prolonged use of antibiotics, pesticides, drugs and other biocides.
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US FDA
NIH Health Information
Mechanism of Anti-rectroviral Action
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