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Common use
Amantadine is an antiviral and antiparkinsonian medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease, drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms, and certain viral infections like influenza A. It works by influencing dopamine activity in the brain and interfering with viral replication. In Parkinson’s disease, it helps reduce tremors, stiffness, and movement difficulties. As an antiviral, it is used mainly for prophylaxis and early treatment of specific flu strains.
Dosage and direction
The usual adult dose ranges from 100 mg to 200 mg per day, depending on the condition being treated. It is typically taken once or twice daily, with or without food. Swallow the tablet or capsule whole with water, and try to take it at the same time each day. Dosage adjustments may be necessary for elderly patients or those with kidney impairment.
Precautions
Before using amantadine, inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, seizure disorders, heart failure, hypotension, or a history of mental health issues. It may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Use caution in the elderly, as they may be more sensitive to CNS effects like confusion or hallucinations. Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor.
Contraindications
Amantadine is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should be avoided in patients with untreated angle-closure glaucoma. Use with caution in those with severe renal impairment, unless the dose is properly adjusted. It is not typically recommended for children unless prescribed specifically.
Possible side effect
Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, insomnia, and loss of appetite. Some patients may experience swelling in the legs, skin mottling (livedo reticularis), or nervousness. More serious but rare effects include hallucinations, confusion, or orthostatic hypotension. Report any unusual mood changes, visual disturbances, or difficulty urinating to your doctor.
Drug interaction
Amantadine may interact with anticholinergic drugs, CNS stimulants, diuretics, and other Parkinson’s medications like levodopa. Combining with alcohol or other sedatives can enhance drowsiness. Caution is advised when taken with medications that affect kidney function or cause CNS side effects. Always inform your healthcare provider of all drugs and supplements you are taking.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at once. Resume your regular schedule afterward. Missing doses may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
Overdose
An overdose of amantadine can cause serious symptoms like hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, agitation, seizures, or coma. Immediate medical attention is necessary if an overdose is suspected. Supportive treatment and monitoring in a hospital may be required. There is no specific antidote for amantadine overdose.
Storage
Store amantadine at room temperature (20°C to 25°C / 68°F to 77°F), away from light and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not use expired medication. Ask your pharmacist how to properly dispose of unused or expired medicine.
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