Zanamivir (Relenza) for HINI flu!

Zanamivir (Relenza) is an antiviral drug which is available an inhaler. The product is used with a device called a diskhaler. Relenza is also used to treat swine flu. Like Tamiflu is it only effective when given in the first 48 hours after the symptoms occur. At this time the virus is multiplying fast and once the drug is taken within the first 48 hours, the virus growth can be controlled. For the acute infection, Relenza should be taken for 5 days.

In North America the majority of people who have been infected with HINI have been treated with Tamiflu. However, few individuals with kidney disease and women who are pregnant have been treated with Relenza.

So far the data on the effectiveness of Relenza are lacking. From the few studies that have looked at the effects on Relenza on seasonal flu, it appears that the drug is working fine.

Relenza does not cure HNI but helps to:

- Reduce the intensity of the illness
- Decrease the number of sick days by about 1 day
- May reduce chances of developing complications

In children the benefits of Relenza have not been established. One study did show that Relenza did not prevent children from getting complications like ear infections nor did it reduce the duration of infection.

Zanamivir does have a few side effects, the most common is diarrhea. Moreover, Relenza can also worsen wheezing in asthmatics and should be used with great caution in smokers and people with COPD. Other reported side effects of Relenza include mental confusion, lack of concentration or unusual behavior. It appears that these behavior problems disappear once the drug has been discontinued.