More on H1N1 from your H1N1 specialist:
If you look up the pregnancy risk factor for both Tamiflu and Relenza you will find them both to be a risk factor C. However, the CDC does recommend treatment and prophylaxis in pregnant women. The flu seems to be more severe in pregnant women than in non-pregnant individuals and not treating has been linked to increased maternal mortality.
The manufacturers have based their risk rating on animal studies that have shown minor skeletal deformities, however no adverse effects have occurred in humans (or their fetuses) who have taken either antiviral. Also, and an in vitro study of a human placenta found that the active metabolite in Tamiflu does not cross the placenta.
Interestingly enough, Tamiflu is the drug of choice for the TREATMENT of influenza in pregnancy. This is because it is systemically absorbed. (I know that sounds backwards, but it must provide better protection for the infant) However, Relenza is the drug of choice for PROPHYLAXIS in pregnancy. This is because it is not systemically absorbed.
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