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Amantadine - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Amantadine

Generic Name : Amantadine
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Amantadine are provided here.

Pronunciation : a man' ta deen

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Amantadine, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y46.7 Therapeutic Classification : Antivirals

Trade Names/Brand Names of Amantadine

India :

International :


Symmetrel

Why is Amantadine Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a synthetic (man-made) anti-viral and antiparkinson agent, prescribed for Parkinson's disease and also for treating certain types of flu.  It also is used to prevent and treat respiratory infections caused by influenza A virus.

When should Amantadine not be taken? (Contraindications)

Hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Amantadine?

Adult: PO- Influenza A -100 mg/day for 5 days.
Prophylaxis of influenza A -100 mg/day for up to 6 wk. W/ influenza vaccination: up to 3 wk after vaccination.
Herpes zoster- 100 mg twice daily for 14 days, may continue for another 14 days if pain persists.
Parkinson's disease-100 mg/day, up to 100 mg twice daily after ≥1 wk. Max: 400 mg/day.

How should Amantadine be taken?

It comes as a capsule to take by mouth, with food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Amantadine?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with heart or liver disease, kidney impairment, skin disease, mood problems, suicidal thoughts or actions, seizures, increased eye pressure, elderly, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause drowsiness, dizziness or blurred vision, do not drive a car or operate machinery and get up slowly from bed while taking this medication.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• It may cause heatstroke, avoid becoming overheated.

• Patient may develop with increased risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS- life- threatening neurological disorder) with the following symptoms: fever; stiff muscles, confusion, abnormal thinking, fast or irregular heartbeat and sweating; if it so consult with your doctor.

What are the side effects of Amantadine?

Most Frequent - Nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness and sleeplessness.
Central Nervous System - Depression, anxiety, irritability, hallucinations, headache, confusion, abnormal dreams, agitation, fatigue, drowsiness and nervousness.
Gastrointestinal - Loss of appetite, dry mouth, constipation and diarrhea.
Blood - Increased white blood cell count.
Eye - Eye inflammation and dilation of pupil.
Skin - Itching and discoloration of skin.
Miscellaneous - Swelling in the extremities, low blood pressure and dry nose.

What are the other precautions for Amantadine?

Withdrawal should be gradual.
Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Amantadine?

Oral: Store it at room temperature (20-25°C) and in an airtight container. Keep away from children.

Schedule : H
Prescription drugs - Drugs to be sold only under the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner.
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