Relenza (zanamivir) is the first anti-viral medication that is active against all strains of the flu virus. Taken as an inhaler, Relenza directly targets the flu virus in the respiratory tract and significantly reduces the duration and severity of symptoms associated with flu. Relenza is the first in a new class of anti-viral drugs called neuraminidase inhibitors. Neuraminidase is an enzyme which the virus needs in order to spread and infect other healthy cells in the respiratory tract. Delivered directly to the respiratory tract where the virus resides, Relenza inhibits the action of neuraminidase and helps prevent the virus from spreading and infecting other healthy cells. Clinical studies show that Relenza not only reduces the duration of flu but also significantly reduces symptoms. Some studies have also shown reduction in associated complications such as pneumonia.

Relenza Diskhaler Side Effects:

Relenza is inhaled via a device similar to an asthma "puffer". Taken twice daily for five days, Relenza quickly achieves high concentrations of medication in the lungs, particularly on the surface of the respiratory tract where the virus replicates. Being able to switch off viral replication early on, when the flu virus is at its peak, not only shortens the duration of the flu, but also gets people back to normal functioning much sooner.