# 3607
All drugs have side effects.
Even over-the-counter medications are linked to hundreds of deaths every year, which is why one should always weigh the risks and benefits before taking any drug.
In 1996, NSAIDS (Non-steroidal Anti-inflamatorys like Aspirin, ibuprofen & naproxen) were believe to account for an estimated 7,600 deaths and 76,000 hospitalizations in the United States alone.
The wholesale distribution of Tamiflu in the UK is raising concerns because tens of thousands of children are receiving a prescription antiviral medication – without ever seeing a doctor – for a virus that for most will be a mild and self limiting illness.
The problem is, no one can predict which child will experience a mild illness from this virus, and which ones will see something more profound.
And despite the characterization that the administration of Tamiflu only results in a `one day reduction’ in the duration of the illness, we’ve seen anecdotal evidence that it can be lifesaving with other influenza viruses.
It may well be that the relatively low fatality rate in the UK thus far can be attributed to the widespread distribution and use of antivirals.
I’m sure, in time, we’ll get some studies on that, too.
It should be noted that this study, which appears in the BMJ (British Medical Journal), is based on a review of older studies and not on the current pandemic – although the authors believe that their results apply to the current situation.
Of course, if antivirals were denied to the public at this late stage, and a child dies for what is perceived to have been the lack of Tamiflu, the press would roast the NHS on a spit.
Proving that sometimes, there are no good solutions.
LATEST: 'Tamiflu harms outweigh benefits for children'
Ben Bailey
10.08.09Children should not be given the anti-viral drug Tamiflu because its harms outweigh any benefits, researchers said today.
They called on the Department of Health to have an urgent rethink of its current policy in the swine flu pandemic.
Their study found that Tamiflu caused vomiting in some children, which can lead to dehydration and complications.
And the drug had little or no effect on asthma flare-ups, ear infections or the likelihood of a youngster needing antibiotics.
Dr Carl Henegan, a GP and expert from the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, said the current policy of giving Tamiflu for mild illness was an "inappropriate strategy".
He added: "The downside of the harms outweigh the one-day reduction in symptomatic benefits."
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