Respiratory Distress Associated with Zanamivir

Abstract

Zanamivir (Relenza, Glaxo Wellcome, Research Triangle Park, N.C.), a neuraminidase inhibitor, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of uncomplicated influenzavirus infection. Zanamivir is marketed as a powder with a lactose vehicle. It is administered orally with the use of an inhalation device (Diskhaler, Glaxo Wellcome). We describe a patient who had respiratory distress that was associated with zanamivir use and required hospitalization.