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Amantadine

 

Amantadine (generic Symmetrel) Review

brand names: Symmetrel, Symadine
generic names: Amantadine hydrochloride, Amantadine Capsules,, Amantadine

How does it work?

This medicine contains the active ingredient amantadine hydrochloride, which is a medicine used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It is also used in the prevention and treatment of influenza A, and in certain cases of shingles.

Dopamine is a chemical in the brain known to be absent or reduced in people with Parkinson's disease. Amantadine is thought to increase the release of dopamine in the brain. By increasing dopamine release, amantadine has a mild effect against some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease such as tremor and rigidity. However, after a period of time, many people observe a reduction in the effect achieved from the same dose (tolerance develops) and therefore its use may be limited. Sometimes the effectiveness can be restored if use of the drug is stopped for a period of time and then restarted. Amantadine is often used in combination with other medicines for the treatment of Parkinson's disease.

Amantadine syrup is also used in the prevention and treatment of flu caused by infection with the influenza A virus. The exact method of action in this capacity is not clear, however, amantadine is thought to inhibit the early stage of replication of the influenza A virus.

It can be given to treat people suffering from flu in whom complications may develop, and to prevent flu in people at particular risk. This can include people with chronic lung disease or debilitating conditions, the elderly, the immunosuppressed and those living in crowded conditions. It can also be used to control influenza outbreaks in families where one member has been diagnosed, or in institutions, eg nursing homes, and to prevent infection of people in essential services, eg healthcare workers, who are unvaccinated or cannot be vaccinated against influenza A.

Amantadine is also used to treat elderly and physically weak people with shingles (caused by the herpes zoster virus) in whom the doctor suspects that a severe and painful rash may occur. Amantadine is used to reduce the likelihood of this. It is not fully understood how amantadine works in this situation.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•closed-angle glaucoma
•depression or other mental illness
•eczema
•heart or circulation problems
•kidney disease
•liver disease
•low blood pressure
•seizures (convulsions)
•an unusual or allergic reaction to Amantadine (Symmetrel), rimantadine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding

Possible side effects of Amantadine (Symmetrel) :

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; unusual anxiety or irritability; trouble urinating; thoughts of suicide; swelling of hands, feet, legs, or ankles; shortness of breath; severe or persistent drowsiness or trouble sleeping; seizures; personality changes; paranoid thoughts; muscle problems (eg, spasms, uncontrolled movements); mental or mood changes; memory loss; hallucinations; fever; fast or irregular heartbeat; fainting; depression; confusion; aggression; agitation; swelling of the mouth, face, lips.

Appetite loss; tiredness; strange dreams; nausea; lightheadedness; headache; dry mouth or nose; drowsiness; dizziness; diarrhea; constipation; blurred vision; trouble sleeping.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions or need medical advice about side effects, contact your doctor or health care provider. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 (1-800-332-1088) or at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch .

Warning!

• This medicine may cause dizziness and blurred vision. If affected, caution is required when driving or operating machinery.
  
  
• This medicine must not be stopped abruptly if you are taking it for Parkinson's disease, as this can worsen the symptoms of the disease. It should also not be stopped abruptly if you are taking antipsychotic medicines, as this can increase the risk of side effects from the antipsychotic medicine.
  
  

What are Amantadine (Symmetrel) capsules or tablets?

Amantadine (Symmetrel ® ) prevents or treats certain influenza (flu) infections. It is not an effective treatment for colds or other viruses. Amantadine can also improve muscle control and reduce muscle stiffness in patients with Parkinson's disease or similar movement disorders. Generic Amantadine (Symmetrel) capsules are available.

What is the most important information I should know about Amantadine (Symmetrel)?

Before taking Amantadine (Symmetrel), glaucoma, liver disease, kidney disease, congestive heart failure, tell your doctor if you have epilepsy or other seizure disorder, or a history of mental illness or suicide attempt.

Do not use FluMist nasal influenza "live vaccine" while you are being treated with Amantadine (Symmetrel) and for at least 48 hours after you stop taking Amantadine. The nasal vaccine may not be as effective if you receive it while you are taking Amantadine (Symmetrel). Before taking Amantadine, tell your doctor if you have received a nasal flu vaccine within the past 14 days. Amantadine (Symmetrel) can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly. If you are taking Amantadine to treat influenza A, take the medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. If you are taking Amantadine (Symmetrel) to treat Parkinson symptoms, do not stop taking the medication without first talking to your doctor. If you stop taking Amantadine suddenly, your condition may become worse.