The FDA has approved a new flu treatment just in time for the flu season

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new antiviral treatment for influenza.

The agency on Wednesday approved Genentech's drug Xofluza, which can be taken in a single oral dose to help patients recover more quickly from the flu. This is the "first new antiviral treatment for influenza with a new mechanism of action approved by the FDA for nearly 20 years," said Dr. Scott Gottlieb, Commissioner of the FDA, in a statement.

The main factor that differentiates Xofluza from other antiviral drugs on the market, such as Tamiflu and Relenza, is how it was taken. Xofluza is the only antiviral that can be taken in a single oral dose. Tamiflu, for example, should be taken orally twice a day for five days, while Relenza is an inhaled powder.

In clinical trials, patients taking Xofluza overcame their flu-like symptoms faster than those taking a placebo tablet, although the drug did not significantly lessen the symptoms faster than other flu treatments. . A Genentech representative told TIME that the drug, approved for people over the age of 12 with uncomplicated influenza symptoms for 48 hours or less, will be available across the United States "in the coming weeks." Its wholesale price will be $ 150. Although insured patients who use a coupon can buy it for as little as $ 30, the company said.

While antivirals provide valuable benefits to those who already have the flu, Gottlieb said in his statement that drugs do not replace influenza vaccines, which can prevent the disease. "The flu season is already well advanced and the US Center for Disease Prevention and Control recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October, as the seasonal flu vaccine is one of the ways the most effective and safest to protect yourself, your family and your community. influenza and serious complications related to influenza, which can lead to hospitalizations, "said Gottlieb. "Annual vaccination is the main way to prevent and control influenza outbreaks."

FDA approval follows one of the most deadly and widespread influenza seasons in recent history. More than 80,000 people died of the flu in the 2017-2018 season.