Antiviral medication
The medicines available for the treatment of influenza in Finland are oseltamivir and zanamivir. A supply of antiviral medicines is also kept in storage in case of an influenza pandemic. The efficacy of antiviral medication in the prevention and treatment of influenza cannot be confirmed until the type and sensitivity of the virus to the antiviral medication available has been established. Because the sensitivity of viruses changes, the choice of medication, therapeutic indications and dosage can change quickly at different stages of the epidemic.
Fimea monitors the quality, efficacy, safety and distribution of antiviral medication. In the event of a pandemic, up-to-date information on antivirals and their use is available on the websites of THL and Fimea.
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) is for oral use and available in capsules and oral suspension. Zanamivir (Relenza®) is an inhalation powder administered directly into the respiratory tract. More detailed information on Tamiflu and Relenza is available in the summary of product characteristics and the package leaflet: