Intensive work on preparedness planning for the next pandemic influenza is currently ongoing in Iceland as well as in other countries. Anti-viral agents will play a significant role in minimizing the potential devastating effects of pandemic influenza. In this overview the antivirals likely to be used in the next pandemic influenza are discussed and official national guidelines provided regarding their use. In order to maximize the utilization of the national stockpiles of antiviral agents the authors hope that icelandic physicians will follow the guidelines presented.