Tamiflu: The Supply Problem

Taming of the flu: Shikimic and quinic acids are the established starting materials for Tamiflu, a viral neuraminidase inhibitor that is considered by many as the first-line treatment against a possible H5N1 (bird flu) pandemic. Several syntheses have been described recently that circumvent the use of these natural products. These, or related approaches, may provide an alternative practical approach to this important drug.