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Comment by turnip1979 | Hacker News Reader

turnip1979

I was prescribed Tamiflu once a few years ago and wow .. what a weird drug. My memory might be off but I think it is supposed to reduce the length of the flu by just 2-3 days. And it has to be taken within a short period of getting the flu. Didn't feel it was worth it.

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It was always my understanding that Tamiflu was more for people for whom contracting influenza was life threatening. Not for regular people to experience a shorter flu.

This report is pretty damning, regardless.

I've taken it in the past when my son tested positive for flu, but before I've shown symptoms. I've yet to come down with it under those circumstances. Of course, its impossible to say for sure whether I'd have gotten the flu otherwise, but anecdotally I believe it was successful prophylaxis.

I'm sure it was initially created for that purpose however as soon as demand tapers off they'll being to seek new customers.

As the parent of twins born premature at 26 weeks (missed the third trimester by a day!), 2-3 day reduction can be a lifesaver for some vulnerable populations.

Not saying anything about Tamiflu's effectiveness, just that 2-3 days can be a lot.

I had the flu last month (actually tested positive), and the Tamiflu seemed to get me back on my feet pretty quickly. At the same time, my wife took a prophylactic dose and she did not get the flu.

Similarly, 3 years ago, both of my sons and my wife tested positive, all saw improvements within 24 hours of taking it. I took a prophylactic dose that time and did not get the flu.

Anecdotal, I guess, but I would take it again in similar circumstances.

Tested positive for the flu? I've never heard of anyone getting tested for it given it lasts for such a short period of time.

Is this a common thing?

Possibly relevant: Australian.

Yes it is pretty common in the US at least, a nasal/throat swab is taken for a rapid influenza A/B screen- and if positive can be confirmed by PCR.

http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/diagnosis/clinician_gui...

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