# 1254
Antivirals don't work if administered more than 48 hours after infection sets in.
At least, that's the prevailing `wisdom'.
Now comes a study that suggests that older patients in particular might benefit from antiviral therapy for influenza, even after the first 48 hours.
Helen Branswell does what she does best, and presents this information in a clear and concise manner.
Antivirals cut risk of flu-hit elderly dying in hospital
Wed, November 14, 2007
By HELEN BRANSWELL, CP
TORONTO -- Antiviral drugs can significantly cut the risk of death for older adults hospitalized with severe cases of influenza, even if the therapy is started outside the optimal treatment window, a study from Toronto researchers suggests.
People stricken with a case of flu so severe it sent them to hospital were five times less likely to die if they were put on antiviral therapy compared to those who didn't receive one of these drugs, the study found.
The findings could alter the way doctors treat hospitalized flu patients, said specialists not involved with the study .
