Physician-epidemiologist Luc Bonneux, writing for the Dutch Journal of Medicine, asserts there is no robust scientific evidence that Tamiflu prevents serious swine flu complications.
Bonneux critiques the key studies cited by experts and governments to recommend Tamiflu (oseltamivir), produced by Roche. These trials were funded and conducted by the manufacturer itself. "The results appear to be presented in the most favorable light possible," Bonneux notes.
Age Bias Participants receiving oseltamivir were younger on average than the placebo group. This age gap could account for fewer complications in the treatment arm, as hospitalization risk for flu rises sixfold in those aged 50-64. "The age difference may explain up to an 80% variation in complications," Bonneux explains.
Worse Than the Illness? Serious complications from swine flu (H1N1) were rare even without treatment, in both healthy individuals and at-risk groups. Thus, the studies' clinical relevance is limited. Meanwhile, Tamiflu's side effects—severe headaches, vomiting, and diarrhea—are well-documented and frequent.
The RIVM maintains the research is methodologically sound and dismisses Bonneux's concerns.
