In this month's column, the authors evaluate the cost effectiveness of osel
tamivir and zanamivir, compared with standard care, for the treatment of in
fluenza. Using efficacy data from randomized, placebo-controlled clinical t
rials, a cost-effectiveness model was constructed. In an influenza-positive
patient population, the cost per symptom-free day was $16 for zanamivir-tr
eated patients compared with $39 for oseltamivir-treated patients. Consider
ing a hypothetical drug budget of $100,000, 919 additional patients could b
e treated with zanamivir than with oseltamivir. Treatment with zanamivir wo
uld result in a gain of 1,714 symptom-free days and 52 fewer influenza-rela
ted complications than if oseltamivir were used.