Amantadine
Parkinson Disease, Dyskinesias ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Influenza A M2 Protein Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Amantadine
Summary
Amantadine is used to treat and prevent symptoms of Parkinson's disease such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty moving. It can also control muscle spasms caused by certain medications. Additionally, it can treat or prevent the flu caused by the influenza A virus.
Amantadine works by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain, which helps improve movement and control in conditions like Parkinson's disease. It also has antiviral properties, blocking the flu virus from spreading in the body.
Take Amantadine as prescribed by your doctor, either with or without food. The length of time to take Amantadine depends on the condition being treated. For the flu, take it for 1-2 days after your symptoms go away. For Parkinson's disease, it may stop working after a few months.
Amantadine can cause side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, or indigestion. It can also cause mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, agitation, aggression, hallucinations, paranoia, and psychosis.
Amantadine should not be taken if you are allergic to it. It can worsen mental health problems and seizures. It can also affect your ability to drive safely. If you have Parkinson's disease, suddenly stopping Amantadine can cause a serious flare-up of symptoms.
Indications and Purpose
How does Amantadine work?
Amantadine works by increasing dopamine, which is a brain chemical that helps control movement, and by blocking the virus that causes the flu. Think of it like a key that unlocks more dopamine in the brain, helping improve movement in Parkinson's patients. For flu, it acts like a shield, preventing the virus from spreading. These effects make Amantadine helpful for treating Parkinson's disease and certain types of flu. Always follow your doctor's instructions for the best results.
Is Amantadine effective?
Amantadine is effective for treating Parkinson's disease, which is a disorder affecting movement, and certain types of flu. It works by increasing dopamine, which is a brain chemical that helps control movement, and by blocking the virus that causes the flu. Studies show Amantadine can improve symptoms like stiffness and tremors in Parkinson's patients. It can also reduce flu symptoms if taken early. Always follow your doctor's advice to ensure the best results from Amantadine.
What is Amantadine?
Amantadine is a medication used to treat Parkinson's disease, which affects movement, and certain types of flu. It belongs to a class of drugs called antiviral and antiparkinsonian agents. Amantadine works by increasing dopamine, which is a brain chemical that helps control movement, and by blocking the virus that causes the flu. It's used alone or with other therapies to improve symptoms like stiffness and tremors in Parkinson's patients. Always follow your doctor's instructions when using Amantadine.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Amantadine?
Amantadine is usually taken long-term for managing chronic conditions like Parkinson's disease, which affects movement. For flu treatment, it's used short-term. The duration depends on your health condition and how your body responds. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding how long to take Amantadine. They will guide you based on your specific health needs and any side effects you experience. Never change or stop your medication without consulting your healthcare provider.
How do I dispose of Amantadine?
To dispose of Amantadine, take it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly to prevent harm to people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. First, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal it in a plastic bag, and then throw it away. Always keep medications out of reach of children.
How do I take Amantadine?
Take Amantadine exactly as your doctor prescribes. It's usually taken once or twice daily, with or without food. Swallow the capsules whole; do not crush or chew them. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses. There are no specific food or beverage restrictions, but always follow your doctor's advice. If you have questions about your dosage or how to take Amantadine, consult your healthcare provider.
How long does it take for Amantadine to start working?
Amantadine starts working in your body shortly after you take it. For Parkinson's disease, you might notice improvements in symptoms like stiffness or tremors within a few days. For flu, it can reduce symptoms if taken early. The full therapeutic effect may take a few weeks to become apparent. How quickly Amantadine works can depend on your overall health and the condition being treated. Always take it as prescribed for the best results and consult your doctor if you have concerns.
How should I store Amantadine?
Store Amantadine at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Avoid storing it in humid places like bathrooms, as moisture can affect the medication's effectiveness. Always keep Amantadine out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication. If you have questions about storage, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
What is the usual dose of Amantadine?
The usual starting dose of Amantadine for adults is 100 mg once or twice daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response and any side effects. The maximum recommended dose is 400 mg per day. For elderly patients or those with kidney problems, a lower dose may be necessary. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your health needs. If you have questions about your dosage, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Amantadine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
The safety of Amantadine while breastfeeding is not well-established. It's unclear if the medication passes into breast milk or affects milk supply. If you're breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, discuss your treatment options with your doctor. They can help determine if Amantadine is safe for you and your baby or suggest alternative medications. Always follow your doctor's advice to ensure the best outcomes for both you and your child.
Can Amantadine be taken safely while pregnant?
The safety of Amantadine during pregnancy is not well-established. Limited evidence suggests potential risks, so it's important to weigh the benefits and risks with your doctor. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss your treatment options with your healthcare provider. They can help create a plan that ensures the best outcomes for both you and your baby. Always follow your doctor's advice regarding medication use during pregnancy.
Can I take Amantadine with other prescription drugs?
Amantadine can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing effectiveness. For example, combining it with anticholinergic drugs, which affect nerve signals, can increase side effects like dry mouth or confusion. Mixing Amantadine with other medications that affect the central nervous system can also increase dizziness or drowsiness. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking to avoid potential interactions. They can adjust your treatment plan to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Does Amantadine have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of Amantadine include dizziness, nausea, and insomnia, which is difficulty sleeping. These effects vary in frequency and severity. Serious side effects, like hallucinations or swelling, are rare but require immediate medical attention. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms while taking Amantadine, contact your doctor. They can help determine if the medication is the cause and suggest appropriate actions to manage these effects.
Does Amantadine have any safety warnings?
Yes, Amantadine has important safety warnings. It can cause dizziness, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Amantadine may also cause confusion, especially in older adults. If you experience unusual mood changes, hallucinations, or swelling in your legs or feet, contact your doctor immediately. Not following these warnings can lead to serious health issues. Always discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure safe use of Amantadine.
Is Amantadine addictive?
Amantadine is not considered addictive or habit-forming. It does not cause physical or psychological dependence. However, if you stop taking it suddenly, you might experience withdrawal symptoms like anxiety or agitation. To avoid this, your doctor may suggest gradually reducing your dose. Always follow your doctor's instructions when stopping Amantadine to prevent withdrawal symptoms and ensure your health condition remains stable.
Is Amantadine safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals may be more sensitive to the side effects of Amantadine, such as dizziness, confusion, and swelling. These effects can increase the risk of falls or other complications. It's important for older adults to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider while taking Amantadine. Dose adjustments may be necessary to ensure safety. Always discuss any concerns with your doctor to ensure the medication is used safely and effectively.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Amantadine?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Amantadine. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and confusion. These effects can be more pronounced when combined with Amantadine. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and be aware of how your body reacts. If you experience any unusual symptoms, contact your doctor. Always discuss alcohol use with your healthcare provider to get personalized advice based on your health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Amantadine?
Yes, you can exercise while taking Amantadine, but be cautious. This medication can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, which might affect your balance during physical activity. Start with light exercises and gradually increase intensity as you see how your body responds. Stay hydrated and listen to your body. If you feel dizzy or unwell, stop exercising and rest. Always consult your doctor if you have concerns about exercising while on Amantadine.
Is it safe to stop Amantadine?
It's not safe to stop Amantadine suddenly without consulting your doctor. Stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms like anxiety or agitation. If you need to stop taking Amantadine, your doctor may suggest gradually reducing your dose to prevent these symptoms. Always follow your doctor's instructions when changing or stopping your medication to ensure your health condition remains stable and to avoid any complications.
What are the most common side effects of Amantadine?
Side effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common side effects of Amantadine include dizziness, nausea, and insomnia, which is difficulty sleeping. These effects vary from person to person. If you experience new symptoms after starting Amantadine, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. It's important to talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. They can help determine if the side effects are related to Amantadine and suggest ways to manage them.
Who should avoid taking Amantadine?
Do not take Amantadine if you have a known allergy to it. This medication is not suitable for people with untreated angle-closure glaucoma, which is a condition where fluid pressure in the eye increases. Caution is needed if you have a history of seizures or heart problems. Always inform your doctor about your medical history before starting Amantadine. They can help determine if this medication is safe for you and discuss any potential risks.
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