Child-sized Tamiflu capsules receive EU approval

The European Commission has approved smaller child sized Tamiflu (oseltamivir) capsules of 30 mg and 45 mg doses.

Until now, Roche's Tamiflu was available in capsules containing a 75 mg dose of oseltamivir and as a powder for oral suspension for use in children. The new lower dose capsules provide a convenient alternative for the treatment and prevention of influenza types A and B in children one year and older.

Since the smaller capsules have a longer shelf life than the suspension formulation (five years vs. two years), they also offer an improved option for government pandemic stockpiling.

The lower dose Tamiflu capsules were approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in July.

As well as being used to manage seasonal influenza, Roche expects the 30 mg and 45 mg capsules to be an important component in government pandemic preparedness.

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