From the Guidelines
Tamiflu (oseltamivir) is not recommended for treating acute COVID-19. According to the most recent and highest quality study 1, oseltamivir is not recommended for COVID-19 treatment due to its lack of effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2. The study highlights that oseltamivir specifically targets influenza viruses, which are different from coronaviruses, and therefore has no proven benefit in treating COVID-19.
Key Points to Consider
- The World Health Organization (WHO) states there is currently no evidence for any specific anti-COVID-19 treatment 1
- Approved antiviral treatments for acute COVID-19 include Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) and remdesivir, which should be started within 5-7 days of symptom onset in eligible patients at high risk for progression to severe disease
- Molnupiravir is another option but less preferred due to lower efficacy
- These COVID-specific antivirals work by interfering with viral replication mechanisms specific to SARS-CoV-2
Clinical Implications
If you have COVID-19 symptoms, you should get tested promptly and consult with a healthcare provider about appropriate treatment options based on your specific risk factors, timing of symptoms, and medical history. It is essential to follow evidence-based guidelines and recommendations from reputable sources, such as the WHO, to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients with COVID-19.
From the Research
Tamiflu for Acute COVID-19
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that supports the use of Tamiflu for acute COVID-19 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies mention various treatments for COVID-19, including remdesivir, corticosteroids, tocilizumab, and monoclonal antibody combinations, but do not mention Tamiflu as a treatment option 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Some studies discuss the use of antiviral drugs, such as nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, molnupiravir, and remdesivir, for the treatment of COVID-19, but Tamiflu is not mentioned as one of these options 4, 5, 6.
Alternative Treatments for Acute COVID-19
- Remdesivir is mentioned as an antiviral agent approved for the treatment of COVID-19, with evidence showing reduction in recovery time and faster clinical improvement 2, 5.
- Corticosteroids, such as dexamethasone, are recommended for use in hospitalized patients with severe or critical COVID-19, with evidence showing mortality benefits 2, 5, 6.
- Monoclonal antibody combinations, such as bamlanivimab/etesevimab and casirivimab/imdevimab, have received emergency use authorizations for use in non-hospitalized patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 at high risk of disease progression 2, 5.