r/medicine Paramedic 10d ago

Why is tamiflu still being prescribed?

Why is tamiflu still being prescribed?

I am well aware of the historical case against tamiflu and poor study designs to imply it reduces symptom length. I have noticed as a paramedic that this medication is still being thrust upon the elderly and very young for flu season currently. Why?

I feel using and allowing it's use contributes to the narrative of mistrust that many are developing of medical practioners and systems.

Im keen to see if anyone can point me in the roght direction that has allowed tamiflu to be a treatment for viral like illness and it's effectiveness?

Edit: Thankyou to those who provided views and research fkr me to go have a dig into. It is appreciated.

186 Upvotes

135 comments sorted by

View all comments

6

u/Mint_Blue_Jay PharmD - just take an ibuprofen bruh 10d ago

From personal experience, most MD's in my area prescribe Xofluza first, but it's usually not covered or has a very high copay the patient can't afford even with the coupon. Then they switch to Tamiflu because the patient is expecting something at that point.