Use of the Selective Oral Neuraminidase Inhibitor Oseltamivir to Prevent Influenza

Abstract

Safe and effective antiviral agents are needed to prevent infection with influenza A and B viruses. Oseltamivir (GS4104), which can be administered orally, is the prodrug of GS4071, a potent and selective inhibitor of influenzavirus neuraminidases. We studied the use of oseltamivir for long-term prophylaxis against influenza in two placebo-controlled, double-blind trials at different U.S. sites during the winter of 1997–1998.