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Most swine flu patients do not need Tamiflu and should just take paracetamol instead, a leading doctor said today.
Laurence Buckman, chairman of British Medical Association's GP Committee, said: “Taking Tamiflu can shorten swine flu from five to four days. It also seems to reduce the risk of severe deterioration and the number of people who need intensive care.
“But if you are not going to be one of those people it doesn't seem to offer any enormous benefit — it is not a wonder drug.
“An ordinary person who is not that ill with swine flu does not need Tamiflu. It can give patients diarrhoea and vomiting. Some will become irritable and confused.
“If you are feeling off-colour anyway it is not to your advantage to take something that makes you feel more off-colour.
“Those people who are at risk should take it — such as children under the age of one and those with diabetes, asthma, chronic lung disease and heart disease.
“I also prescribe Relenza [an alternative swine flu drug] to pregnant women and those with kidney disease. But unless you are in one of those categories or you are getting more and more ill I would recommend you take paracetamol and keep cool.”
