Explain Antivirals Don't Help the Flu in Most Patients

February 2015

Patients will ask about problems with this year's flu vaccine and whether they need an antiviral if they get the flu.

Influenza A H3N2 is the most common strain circulating now...and it has mutated since the vaccine was formulated.

That's why this year's flu vaccine is only about 23% effective...compared to up to 55% last season. The H3N2 strain is also more virulent...leading to more hospitalizations and deaths.

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Vaccines Explain Antivirals Don't Help the Flu in Most Patients
Obesity & Weight Loss Suggest Reducing Insulin Doses if Saxenda is Used for Weight Loss in Diabetes
Cough & Cold Resist Temptation to Recommend OTC Dextromethorphan or Guaifenesin for Cough
Menopause Avoid Soy Supplements in Women With Breast Cancer
Opioids Advise Watching for Hypoglycemia Right After Starting Tramadol
Blood Pressure Explain Finger Cuffs Are Notoriously Inaccurate for Blood Pressure
Hepatitis C Point Out Viekira Still Needs to Be Used With Ribavirin
Med Administration Explain Some Eye Drops May Be Given Sublingually
Neurology & Pain Recommend Increasing Power Gradually on OTC "TENS" Devices
Sickle Cell Disease Suggest a Progestin-Only Contraceptive for Sickle Cell Patients
Insomnia Point Out Belsomra Can Cause "Sleep Driving"
Hemophilia Don't Use Obizur for Congenital Hemophilia A
Renal & Urology Use eGFR Instead of Cockcroft Gault for "Flozin" Dosing

Explain Antivirals Don't Help the Flu in Most Patients

Get concise advice on drug therapy, plus unlimited access to CE

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