Oseltamivir Prescribing in the US, 2004–2005
Author Information
Author(s): Justin R. Ortiz, Laurie Kamimoto, Ronald E. Aubert, Jianying Yao, David K. Shay, Joseph S. Bresee, Robert S. Epstein
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hypothesis
Did personal stockpiling of oseltamivir occur during periods of low influenza activity?
Conclusion
Prescription rates of oseltamivir significantly increased from 2004 to 2005, suggesting stockpiling behavior among the public.
Supporting Evidence
- Oseltamivir prescription rates increased from 27.3/100,000 in 2004 to 134/100,000 in 2005.
- The proportion of oseltamivir prescriptions to total anti-influenza prescriptions increased from 37.0% in 2004 to 76.9% in 2005.
- Women were more likely to receive oseltamivir prescriptions than men in both years.
- Prescription rates increased for all age groups from 2004 to 2005.
Takeaway
People started buying a lot more oseltamivir medicine in 2005, even when there wasn't much flu around, because they were worried about a flu pandemic.
Methodology
The study analyzed filled prescriptions for oseltamivir from a pharmacy benefits management database during 2004 and 2005.
Potential Biases
Physician attitudes towards personal stockpiling may have influenced prescription rates.
Limitations
The study population may not be nationally representative, and it only included prescriptions filled at pharmacies.
Participant Demographics
The study included a diverse population of pharmacy benefits members, but specific demographics were not detailed.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI 4.79–4.97
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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