Peramivir Treatment Response in Adults Hospitalized for Influenza-associated Lower Respiratory Tract Infections

Peramivir is the first intravenous neuraminidase inhibitor (NAI) available for treatment of uncomplicated influenza in adults. Data from placebo-controlled trials in outpatients have shown antiviral efficacy, safety, and tolerability. Although the unmet need for intravenous therapy lies mainly with patients hospitalized with complicated diseases, such data are limited because of feasibility and ethical considerations for placebo-controlled studies. In this study, the investigators aimed to examine more specifically treatment effects of peramivir in adults hospitalized with influenza-associated lower respiratory tract complications (LRTC). Such findings may have important implications on clinical management.