Logistic issues and potential prescribing costs associated with use of neuraminidase inhibitors for the treatment of influenza in primary care

Abstract

In the UK, the National Institute for Clinical Excellence has recommended the use of neuraminidase inhibitors for elderly and at-risk patients who present with influenza-like illness within 36 hours of symptom onset. However, few data exist to enable primary care trusts to evaluate the logistics and costs of prescribing. We sought to determine, during a confirmed influenza outbreak, the proportion of eligible patients who currently present in time to benefit from treatment with a neuraminidase inhibitor, and to develop the findings into a model for evaluating potential prescribing costs. Within a single primary care group, demographic and co-morbidity data were collected on all patients consulting their general practitioner or attending an out-of-hours centre with influenza-like illness during the outbreak period.