Amantadine
Generic Name:
Amantadine
Brand Names:
Amantadine Description:
Amantadine is prescribed to treat symptoms caused by Parkinson’s disease. Amantadine is in a class of medications called dopamine agonists or antidyskinetic medicines, which work by mimicking the action of dopamine in the brain controlling tremors, rigidity, and other Parkinson’s disease symptoms.
Amantadine may also be prescribed to treat patients with influenza virus A or to treat fatigue side effects associated with multiple sclerosis.
Amantadine Side Effects:
The following side effects have been associated with amantadine:
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Depression
- Rash
- Shortness of breath
For more information, see our amantadine side effects page.
Amantadine Uses:
Amantadine may be prescribed to treat tremors, rigidity, and symptoms caused by Parkinson’s disease. Patients affected by Parkinson’s disease do not produce enough dopamine. Amantadine mimics the brain’s production of dopamine, the essential chemical for smooth, voluntary movement.
Amantadine may also be prescribed to treat influenza virus A and fatigue symptoms connected to multiple sclerosis.
Amantadine Interactions:
Patients should speak with their doctor about the use of any medications, vitamins or supplements before taking amantadine.
Before beginning treatment with amantadine, patients should consult their doctor if they are taking any of the following medications:
- Potassium chloride
- Betel Nut
- Bromperidol
- Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
- Triamterene
- Stimulants
- Trihexyphenidyl
- Benztropine
- Antidepressants
Patients with a history or current diagnosis of any of following conditions should consult their doctor before treatment with amantadine:
- Seizures
- Psychosis
- Kidney disease
- Eczema
- Liver disease
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
- Peripheral edema
- Congestive heart failure
- Low blood pressure
- Glaucoma
Amantadine Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Amantadine dosages may vary among patients and conditions. Patients should take amantadine exactly as prescribed by their doctor.
Amantadine is distributed as a 100 mg tablet, syrup, or capsule. Adults should take 200 mg a day. Older adults and children 9 to 12 years old may take 100 mg of amantadine once or in divided doses. Children 1 to 9 may take 4.4 mg to 8.8 mg per kilogram of body weight daily, but should not exceed 150 mg.
Do not suddenly stop taking amantadine. Patients should gradually decrease their dose over a period of seven days.
Patient should take amantadine with food or milk to prevent stomach upset.
Missing a Dose of Amantadine
If you miss a dose of amantadine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not double a dose to make up for your missed dose.
Amantadine Overdose
Patients who overdose on amantadine may collapse or stop breathing. Call your doctor immediately if you believe you have overdosed on amantadine.
Amantadine FDA Approval:
February 14, 1968
Amantadine Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There are no recalls or Black Box warnings for amantadine.
Other Warnings
Patients using amantadine should be monitored for symptoms or agitation, irritability, suicidal tendencies, or thoughts. If you or someone you know is taking amantadine and begins to exhibit symptoms of depression, contact your doctor.
Patients using amantadine may develop compulsive behaviors or have problems with impulse control. Pathological gambling, hypersexuality, compulsive eating, and compulsive shopping habits have developed in patients treated with amantadine.
Patients with Parkinson’s disease have a higher risk for developing melanoma. If you are being treated with Amantadine, have you doctor check your skin regularly.
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September 9, 2010, 3:38 pm
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September 8, 2010, 3:39 pm
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September 7, 2010, 9:59 am
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September 2, 2010, 12:51 pm
