Pharmaceuticals: An Outbreak of New Sources of Avian Flu Drug
2006
New Sources of Avian Flu Drug
publication
Author Information
Author(s): Cynthia Washam
Hypothesis
Can new methods for synthesizing oseltamivir phosphate improve production efficiency?
Conclusion
Scientists have discovered faster and cheaper ways to produce oseltamivir phosphate, the only drug proven to combat avian flu.
Supporting Evidence
- 228 people have been infected with H5N1 avian influenza, with more than half dying.
- Roche Pharmaceuticals has significantly increased its Tamiflu production capacity.
- New methods for synthesizing oseltamivir phosphate could alleviate shortages.
Takeaway
Researchers found new ways to make a medicine that helps fight bird flu, which could help if there's a pandemic.
Methodology
New methods for synthesizing oseltamivir phosphate were developed, including petrochemical-based synthesis and extraction from sweetgum tree seeds.
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website