Influenza pandemic study demonstrates early intervention reduces mortality. During the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic, neuraminidase inhibitors were the medications of choice. However, few data exist on the drugs' effectiveness in reducing mortality. A meta-analysis of patient data obtained from the authors of studies of the pandemic and through expert referral reveals that oral oseltamivir and inhaled zanamivir can significantly reduce the risk of death if given within two days of the onset of symptoms. Early treatment was associated with an overall significant decrease in the risk of death, compared with no treatment. Risk reductions were more significant among adults, pregnant women, and adults in critical care, although not among children. The report was published March 19 online in the Lancet Respiratory Medicine. A new Cochrane review (http://bit.ly/1gQ7ezY) found that while neuraminidase inhibitors reduce flu symptoms in otherwise healthy adults, they aren't proven to affect transmission.