New report questions effectiveness of Tamiflu

Tamiflu shortens symptoms of influenza, but no good evidence could prove that it reduces complications of influenza, according to a new report published by an independent healthcare research organization. The use of Tamiflu has increased dramatically since the outbreak of H1N1 virus in 2009. It was initially believed that it would reduce hospital admissions and complications of influenza, such as pneumonia, during influenza pandemics. However, researchers from the Cochrane Collaboration concluded that, there are insufficient grounds to support the use of Tamiflu in preventing person-to-person spread of influenza, and in reducing complications, based on previously hidden data into the effectiveness and side-effects of Tamiflu. Compared with a placebo, taking Tamiflu led to a quicker alleviation of influenza-like symptoms of just half a day, from seven days to 6.3 days in adults. There was no evidence of reduction in hospitalizations or serious influenza complications. Tamiflu also increased the risk of nausea, vomiting and psychiatric events in adults. Dr. David Tovey, Editor-in-Chief of Cochrane Library, said that Tamiflu is not proven to be more effective than regular anti-influenza drugs, and it also seems to lead to harmful effects that were not fully reported in the original publications. "This shows the importance of ensuring that trial data are transparent and accessible," he added. However, facing the challenge, Roche, the manufacturer of Tamiflu said in a statement that they "fundamentally disagrees" with the overall conclusions of the report, and that Roche "firmly stand by the quality and integrity of our data, reflected in decisions reached by 100 regulators across the world" and believes Tamiflu is an effective medicine in the treatment and prevention of influenza. Cochrane is a not-for-profit organization with collaborators from over 120 countries working together to produce 'credible, accessible health information' that is free from commercial sponsorship and other conflicts of interest..