Uses of Amantadine

Amantadine is used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease (a progressive nervous disease that causes tremor, muscular rigidity and slow imprecise movements), prevent and treats various strains of influenza A virus (caused by the multiplication of the virus inside the body).

It is also used to treat shingles (herpes zoster) to reduce pain, which is a reactivation of chickenpox virus causing a painful rash and drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions (such as involuntary muscle contraction, tremors, stiff muscles and involuntary facial movements caused by antipsychotics and other drugs).

Therapeutic Category

Amantadine: Antiparkinson and Antiviral agent

How Amantadine works

Amantadine works by increasing the amount of dopamine, a chemical messenger in the brain which regulates the body movements. As an antiviral agent, it works against viruses to prevent their growth and multiplication. It also stops the viruses from releasing infectious chemicals (viral nucleic acid) to enter into the body which prevents influenza infection.

Common side effects of Amantadine

• swollen ankles
• red blotchy spots on the skin
• loss of appetite, feeling tired
• anxiety, feeling overexcited
• hallucinations
• difficulty in controlling movements
• low blood pressure (causing symptoms like dizziness or fainting)
• nausea or vomiting
• difficulty concentrating
• feeling nervous
• difficulty sleeping, nightmares
• muscle pain
• headache, sweating
• slurred speech
• fast or irregular heartbeat
• dry mouth
• constipation

When to consult your doctor

• Dizziness
• Light headedness or fainting
• Convulsions (fits)
• Impulse control disorder (drive or temptation to carry out certain activities that could harm yourself or others, addictive gambling, excessive eating or spending, an abnormally high sex drive or an increase in sexual thoughts or feelings)

Health Tips for Amantadine

• Amantadine can be taken with or without food, in case of stomach upset it is best to take with food
• Take this medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent drug levels in your body. Do not adjust the dose or stop the medication without consulting your doctor first.
• Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking this medicine, as alcohol may increase the risk of side effects.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain proper hydration. Dehydration can exacerbate certain side effects of this medicine.
• Engage in regular physical activity as recommended by your doctor. Exercise can help improve mobility, balance, and muscle strength, which are important considerations for individuals with parkinson's disease.
• Aim to get sufficient sleep each night and try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Proper rest is crucial for individuals with Parkinson's disease, as it can affect motor symptoms and overall well-being.