relenza hard to find

It's hard to believe.

GSK told us they are spending $2 billion on Relenza and vaccine manufacture.

Peter crushed them into submission, making them promise to do better in exchange for our $300 million.

And now despite making using Relenza sound as difficult and dangerous as performing brain surgery on yourself,the few brave souls ignoring "informed" opinion can't find it to buy.

" Dallas County health authorities say flu is on track to peak within the next few weeks.

But, many people diagnosed with the virus, may be forced to go without treatment.

Doctors say Tamiflu pills - the most commonly prescribed flu treatment - aren't effective against this year's most prevalent strain.

The alternative anti-viral drug, Relenza, is now in short supply in some places.

So is there a shortage because they're prescribing it or a shortage because it's not so easy to use?

"I think it's a combination," said Dr. John Carlo.

Carlo says the Dallas County Health Department has received a number of calls from doctors asking for help finding the prescription drug.

Relenza is not as well stocked in pharmacies as Tamiflu because in the past, it hasn't been in high demand.

Relenza is an aerosolized tablet - not a simple swallowed pill. It must be inhaled in a very specific way.

Users need to first blow all the air out of their lungs and hold their breath for about 10 seconds.

The drug maker has even had to post "how to" videos online to help patients take it properly.

Many doctors refuse to prescribe it because if directions aren't followed Relenza won't work as well.

Carlo says there is another alternative that will.

"The best thing of course is the vaccine looks like it's going to be a good match this year, and that's what prevents the flu."

As we've previously reported, there is plenty of vaccine available.

Too much, in fact.

Demand for flu shots in Dallas county this year are about half that of last year. The county could be forced to give shots away, so they don't have to throw them away."

http://www.kvue.com/news/state/stories/012309kvue_tamiflu-cb.213933e5.html

So there you have it. It's only a matter of time before the advice will be "Don't use Relenza, try shooting yourself in the head first."