Awareness among dental students about oseltamivir therapy in treatment of influenza

Abstract

Introduction: Oseltamivir is perhaps the active metabolite oseltamivir carboxylate prodrug which would be a particular influenza virus inhibitor. Oseltamivir has also been demonstrated to have been therapeutically effective for influenza intervention as well as chemoprophylaxis both in adults and children alike. Aim: The research was designed to assess the awareness of Oseltamivir therapy in influenza treatment amongst dental stu-dents. Materials and Method: This was a cross-sectional form of study based on a questionnaire which included 100 dental college students in Chennai. A self-designed questionnaire with ten questions that elicit information and awareness among dental college students about Oseltamivir therapy. Questionnaires were distributed via an online database survey planet. Questions discussed understanding of oseltamivir treatment, signs, counter-inications, action mechanism and side effects. Data were collected and analyzed after the responses were obtained from 100 participants. Results: 17% were aware about Oseltamivir therapy in influenza. 14% were aware of the mechanism of action of Oseltamivir therapy in treatment of influenza. 12% were aware of the indications of Oseltamivirtherapy. 12% were aware of the contrain-dications of Oseltamivir therapy. 10% were aware of the side effects of Oseltamivir therapy. Conclusion: There was less awareness amongst dental students about Oseltamivir in treating viral influenza infections. Ad-ditional information and education initiatives should really be implemented to disseminate knowledge on oseltamivir therapy.