Safety and efficacy of the anti-influenza drug oseltamivir (Tamiflu) questioned

The World Health Organization in 2002 recommended governments to stockpile oseltamivir and zanamivir (Relenza, GlaxoSmithKline) - neuraminidase inhibitor drugs as treatment in the event of an influenza pandemic. Billions of dollars were spent, now doubts on its safety and efficacy arises. [1]

Jefferson et al 2012 published at the Cochrane Library a review of unpublished data unveiling inconsistencies. Previously unpublished material from15 studies on oseltamivir and 10 studies on zanamivir were used in this study, however, 42 studies could not be reviewed because of insufficient information. The researchers sought manufacturer explanations of discrepancies in the data. GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) disclosed individual patient data and responded to queries, but Roche did not provide  complete clinical study reports. Roche failed to provide transparency of their data.

In a foregoing study of 2009, Jefferson and his group of  researchers concluded that neuraminidase inhibitors are not effective. Neuraminidase inhibitors might be regarded as optional for reducing the symptoms of seasonal influenza. Paucity of good data has undermined previous findings for oseltamivir's prevention of complications from influenza. [2]

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[1] Jefferson T, Jones MA, Doshi P, Del Mar CB, Heneghan CJ, Hama R, Thompson MJ  Neuraminidase inhibitors for preventing and treating influenza in healthy adults and children (Review). The Cochrane Library 2012, Issue 1
http://www.thecochranelibrary.com/details/file/1440293/CD008965.html

[2] Jefferson T, Jones M, Doshi P, Del Mar C: Neuraminidase inhibitors for preventing and treating influenza in healthy adults: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ. 2009 Dec 8;339:b5106.
http://www.bmj.com/content/339/bmj.b5106?view=long&pmid=19995812