Free Tamiflu preferred over new swine flu drug

Fluvir, the anti-swine fluu00a0 tablet launched on September 22, has found no takers. The drug, available at 13 medical stores with Schedule X licence and prominent hospitals, is not in demand because Tamiflu is distributed free to patients with swine flu symptoms at 53 PMC screening centres. A strip of Fluvir containing 10 capsules costs Rs 449.

Wait and watch
Dr Anil Bhandwalkar, chairperson, General Practitioners Association, said, "All general practitioners direct patients to screening centres. Many of us are not prescribing Fluvir as yet." Dr Dilip Sarada, president, Indian Medical Association, said, "People are not yet aware of the outlets where the drug is available."

Chetan Shah of Swastic Wholesale Distributors said, "We were supplied with 200 strips of Fluvir. I have given 30 to Poona Hospital and to three shops." Ajit Bhandari of Nitin Distributors said, "I have supplied 30 strips to a hospital and a shop."