Investigating the safety of Tamiflu in children and its potential neuropsychiatric effects

Oseltamivir Use and Risk of Serious Neuropsychiatric Adverse Events in Children

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11046552

This study is looking into how safe Tamiflu is for kids under 12, especially those who are more likely to have serious problems from the flu, by checking if it causes any serious mental health issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11046552 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the safety of oseltamivir (Tamiflu), the only FDA-approved medication for treating influenza in children under 12 years old. It aims to identify the incidence of serious neuropsychiatric adverse events (NPAEs) associated with oseltamivir use, particularly in children at high risk for influenza complications. By analyzing data on neuropsychiatric symptoms related to both influenza and oseltamivir, the study seeks to clarify the risks and inform healthcare providers and parents about the medication's safety. The research will involve population-based assessments and may include testing mechanisms that affect drug transport in the brain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 12 years old who are at high risk for complications from influenza.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for influenza complications or those over 12 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide clearer guidance on the safety of oseltamivir, potentially increasing its appropriate use in children at risk for severe influenza.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated potential neuropsychiatric effects of antiviral medications, but this specific investigation into oseltamivir's effects in children is novel.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.