Cochrane researchers continue to face challenges over access to data on flu drugs

Cochrane Collaboration researchers have said that they may be unable to analyse clinical trial data given to them by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) on the antiviral drug zanamivir (marketed as Relenza) because nearly two thirds of the reports provided have been redacted in different ways.

The researchers have been trying to get access to data held by drug companies on neuraminidase inhibitors for more than three years so that they can review the drugs’ safety and effectiveness.

GSK was the first company to hand over clinical study reports, giving researchers 30 reports at the end of April. The reports hold vast amounts of information on trials’ conduct, adverse events, and outcomes.

The Cochrane researchers remain positive about GSK’s attempt to share the detailed data it holds on zanamivir but have written to the company asking …