GSK flu drug approved by FDA

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved GlaxoSmithKline’s (GSK’s) new influenza drug for use in adults and children.

GSK’s Relenza product, or zanamivir when manufactured for inhalation, is an antiviral medication designed to help combat flu.

Alongside Tamiflu, the new drug is intended to provide another option for the prevention and treatment of flu, with the FDA’s Centre for Drug Evaluation and Research welcoming the new product.

“This approval is a welcome addition to the available defences against the flu,” said the centre’s director Dr Steven Galson.

“This new use offers the medical community another option to prevent and control influenza A and B.”

Studies showed that Relenza had quantifiable improvements in the treatment of seasonal influenza, cutting the 19 per cent rate of flu in the placebo group to 4.1 per cent when taken.

The research also indicated broad efficacy in both young and old patients, with minimal side effects.

The prospect of another flu treatment will be well received in light of fears over the potential for a flu pandemic as scientists continue to track the spread of avian bird flu.

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