What You Need to Know About the New Influenza Treatment, Xofluza

It’s been almost 20 years to the month since Tamiflu (received FDA approval in Oct 1999) has been approved, but it has officially met its match. We now have a new contender, Xofluza. As you’ll likely get many questions about it, I just wanted to give you some quick basics on what you need to know.

  • Generic name: baloxavir marboxil

  • It has a different MOA than Tamiflu, but still only works to shorten symptoms and reduce complications

  • It’s just a single dose, in contrast to the 5 day treatments with Tamiflu

  • It’ll cost: ~$150 (Coupons for $30 and $90 may be available)

  • Only indicated for people ages 12 and up and must be given within 48 hours of onset of symptoms

  • There was no difference in the time to alleviation of symptoms between subjects who received Xofluza and those who received the other flu treatment, e.g. Tamiflu

  • Most common side effects are diarrhea and bronchitis


Hope this helps!

Share this article

Leave your comments

Post comment as a guest

  • Jade Parker

    Good timing for flu season.

  • Lee Robinson

    The virus may develop resistance after just one dose.

  • Nathalie Hall

    The cost of Xofluza will increase very soon.