Tamiflu – A safer choice for treating flu during pregnancy
The 2009 H1N1 pandemic caused acute health problems among many pregnant women. Compared to the general population, the rate of hospitalization was higher in pregnant women who had been infected with the virus. A recent study conducted by the researchers at the Southwestern Medical Center of the University of Texas showed that Tamiflu may be safe for pregnant women and their babies.
About the study
The study involved 239 pregnant women who had been treated for influenza symptoms during pregnancy. The effects of only the most common flu medicines had been studied before the researchers were assured of the benefits of Tamiflu.
Why is flu a risk during pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a very delicate stage in a woman’s life. If any treatment course for any health condition goes wrong during pregnancy, it may put the lives of both the mother and the fetus at risk. This is why extra care is always taken when a woman is pregnant. The potential risks and benefits of Influenza medicines taken during pregnancy must be carefully considered and only if the benefits outweigh the risks, a particular medicine can be taken. According to the study, the benefits of Tamiflu certainly outweigh the risks.
What are the common problems pregnant women may experience when treated for flu?
Pregnant women treated for flu may experience preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, fever at the time of delivery, and premature membrane rupture. The risk of premature birth is also there, which may cause health complications for the newborn. According to the study results, none of these conditions was reported in the 239 cases. Also, the newborn babies were all safe. No major problems associated with low birth weight, seizures or jaundice were reported.
Higher risk during the first trimester
Antiviral Influenza treatments during the first trimester of pregnancy can pose greater risks to the fetus, compared to later stages. This is the only drawback of the common flu drugs. This is why you should always talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of any flu treatment course.
Can Tamiflu be taken during pregnancy?
Based on what the study showed and patient feedback, it is safe to buy Tamiflu than most other influenza drugs taken during pregnancy. But there is still inadequacy in data collection, which is why experts are yet to get a clear picture about the effects of Tamiflu on pregnant women and fetuses. So once again, consultation with a doctor is must when you are down with flu during pregnancy.
Source of article: Tamiflu – A safer choice for treating flu during pregnancy
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