We’re stepping out of our Medicine on the Go series for a rapid-response episode on something hitting all of us hard right now: **influenza**. A lively debate among our colleagues sparked this conversation—especially around a newer flu antiviral, baloxavir (Xofluza). Who’s using it? When does it make sense? How much does it cost patients? And how does it really compare to the longtime staple oseltamivir (Tamiflu)? The questions came fast, the opinions were strong, and we knew it was time to dig in. With flu season in full swing, this episode is all about practical decision-making at the bedside.

Back to Basics: How Flu Antivirals Work

To help break it all down, we welcome back our trusted ED pharmacist, Haley Burhans. We begin with a quick review of how influenza antivirals have evolved.

, approved in 1999, was the first widely used antiviral and works by blocking the neuraminidase enzyme. Over time, concerns about resistance led to the development of newer options. That brings us to baloxavir (Xofluza), approved in 2018. Xofluza works differently by stopping viral replication earlier in the virus life cycle. While both medications aim to shorten illness and reduce complications, they differ in how they work, how they are dosed, and which patients benefit most.

Who Should Get What—and When?

Next, we focus on real-world ED decision-making. Who should receive Tamiflu, and who is a good candidate for Xofluza? We review use in children, pregnant patients, hospitalized patients with severe or worsening illness, immunocompromised patients, and those at higher risk due to conditions like asthma, lung disease, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, or older age. Timing is critical. Both medications work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset. However, oseltamivir is still recommended even after that window for patients who are hospitalized or severely ill. We also discuss when antivirals can be used for post-exposure prpphylaxis.

What Does the Evidence Say?

We then take a closer look at the data behind antiviral treatment. Both Tamiflu and Xofluza shorten the time to symptom improvement. Observational studies suggest oseltamivir may reduce hospital length of stay and in-hospital death in adults and shorten hospital stays in children. Trial data also suggest baloxavir may be more effective against influenza B. We compare dosing strategies—five days of twice-daily Tamiflu versus a single-dose Xofluza—and review side effects and pediatric considerations.

Real-World Barriers: Access and Cost

Finally, we tackle the practical issues clinicians face every day. Tamiflu is widely available and familiar to most providers. Xofluza, on the other hand, often requires prior authorization and may be harder for patients to obtain. We discuss insurance barriers, out-of-pocket costs, manufacturer coupons, and situations where Xofluza may or may not be a realistic option.

Take-Home Message

This episode is a practical, evidence-based conversation designed to help emergency clinicians make confident decisions during flu season. Whether you’re treating a high-risk patient, considering a single-dose option for uncomplicated flu, or simply trying to stay current, this discussion delivers clear, useful guidance you can use on your next shift!

What’s your go to flu treatment? What other medications would you like to learn more about? Hit us up on social media @empulsepodcast or at ucdavisem.com

Hosts:

Dr. Julia Magaña, Professor of Pediatric Emergency Medicine at UC Davis

Dr. Sarah Medeiros, Professor of Emergency Medicine at UC Davis

Guests:

Haley Burhans, PharmD, Emergency Medicine Clinical Pharmacist at UC Davis

Resources:

CDC: Influenza Antiviral Medications: Summary for Clinicians

AAP: Recommendations for Prevention and Control of Influenza in Children, 2025–2026: Policy Statement

ACEP Influenza Resources and Updates

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Thank you to the UC Davis Department of Emergency Medicine for supporting this podcast and to Orlando Magaña at OM Productions for audio production services.

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