Amantadine: Drug Information

Generic name: Amantadine

Brand Name: Amantrel

Amantadine is used in the treatment of drug-induced extra pyramidal symptoms such as Parkinsonism syndrome, akathisia and dystonia. Primarily, Amantadine was used in the treatment of influenza or the prophylaxis of influenza and then was recognized as a drug useful in the treatment of herpes zoster, dementia, multiple sclerosis and cocaine withdrawal as well.

Amantadine is known to have antimuscarinic properties but is a weak dopamine antagonist. It works by altering the release and reuptake of dopamine at nerve terminals in the brain.

Indications and Dosage:

It is advisable for you to take Amantadine as prescribed by your doctor on the basis of the diagnosis. The medicine can be taken with or without food. DO NOT stop taking the medicine even if you fell you are getting better without consulting your doctor.

Warning and Precautions:

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to Amantadine or any other medicines.

This drug should not be given to patients with a history of hypersensitivity, epilepsy, gastric ulcers, kidney disease, liver disease, chronic heart disease or brain tumors.

Caution is advised when administering Amantadine to patients suffering from cerebral atherosclerosis, psychiatric disorders and seizures.

Safety of the medicine has not yet been established in pregnancy and lactation. Thus, notify your doctor in case you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Strict drug monitoring and caution is advised when giving the drug to the elderly.

Drug Interactions:

Amantadine should not be given with levodopa as it accelerates its adverse effects.

The medicine should also not be given with benhexol and orphenadrine.

Side Effects of Amantadine:

The most common side effects of Amantadine include heart failure, hypotension, seizures, hallucinations, psychosis, urinary retention, confusion, anorexia, irritability, ataxia, edema of the ankles and gastric tract disturbances. Prolonged use of the medicine or an overdose can also result in coma, convulsions and chronic confusion.

Overdose:

In case of a drug overdose, it is recommended that you notify your doctor immediately or contact the local poison control center if an emergency arises.