Key Concepts
Drug Classification & Overview
Pharmacologic Class: Antiviral agents for influenza A and B Agents & Comparison: | Drug | Brand | Mechanism | Route | Key Consideration | |---|---|---|---|---| | Oseltamivir | Tamiflu | Neuraminidase inhibitor | Oral | Renal dose adjustment needed | | Zanamivir | Relenza | Neuraminidase inhibitor | Inhaled DPI | Contraindicated with asthma/COPD | | Baloxavir | Xofluza | Cap-dependent endonuclease inhibitor | Oral | Single dose; new mechanism | | Amantadine/Rimantadine | Historical | M2 ion channel blocker | Oral | Influenza A only; high resistance; rarely used | Critical Timing Rule (ALL Agents): - Influenza antivirals are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset - Benefit decreases significantly after 48 hours (reduces duration by ~1 day if taken early) - HIGH-RISK patients: still consider treatment even if >48 hours — may reduce complications - High-risk: age ≥65, children <2, pregnant, immunocompromised, chronic cardiopulmonary disease, morbid obesity - Prophylaxis use (post-exposure): oseltamivir for household contacts of confirmed influenza On the exam, writers often pair stable-sounding options with unstable data—notice the mismatch before you commit. If...
