Capsule

Genpharm

Symmetrel (amantadine) is used to prevent and treat influenza A in adults and children over 1 year of age. It is also used to treat Parkinson's disease and other muscle disorders (drug induced extra-pyrimidal effects) caused by certain medications.

Do not take Symmetrel (amantadine) if you are allergic to any ingredient in Symmetrel (amantadine)

Before using Symmetrel (amantadine), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if your baby is taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine if your baby has any other medical condition

Patients with a history of epilepsy or other seizures should be observed closely for possible increased seizure activity while being treated with Symmetrel (amantadine). Treatment with Symmetrel (amantadine) should be done under strict supervision of a health care provider. Patients being treated for Parkinson's disease have shown suicidal tendencies while being treated with Symmetrel (amantadine).

Other:  Urinary retention; difficulty breathing; tiredness; rash; vomiting; weakness; slurred speech; vision problems. Do not suddenly stop taking Symmetrel (amantadine). Abrupt withdrawal of Symmetrel (amantadine) may cause agitation, hallucinations, paranoia, anxiety, depression, or unconsciousness.

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Symmetrel (amantadine) you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Carefully read and follow the patient leaflet provided with Symmetrel (amantadine) and reread it each time you get your prescription refilled. Take Symmetrel (amantadine) exactly as prescribed by your health care provider. Contact your doctor at once if you think you have taken too much of Symmetrel (amantadine). Symmetrel (amantadine) should be taken as soon as possible after known exposure to influenza, preferably within 24 to 48 hours after symptoms of the flu occur. Symmetrel (amantadine) should be taken for at least 10 days from the start of influenza symptoms. Contact your doctor if fever, muscle rigidity, involuntary movements, moods or mental changes, rapid pulse, or shortness of breath occurs. Parkinson's disease patients should gradually increase physical activity as symptoms improve. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a potentially fatal syndrome that has been associated with Symmetrel (amantadine). Contact your health care provider at once if any of the following occur: Fever; rigid muscles; irregular pulse or blood pressure; rapid heartbeat; excessive sweating; irregular heart rhythms; lack of response to surroundings or environment. Contact your doctor if mood/mental changes, swelling of the hands or feet, difficulty urinating, or shortness of breath occurs. Dizziness or lightheadedness may occur if you stand up too fast from a sitting or lying position. If this occurs, get up slowly and avoid sudden changes in posture. Symmetrel (amantadine) may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity. Do not drink alcohol while taking Symmetrel (amantadine). Lab tests may be required to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments. Do not stop taking Symmetrel (amantadine) without checking with your doctor. Do not take more medication than prescribed unless advised to do so by your doctor or health care provider. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking Symmetrel (amantadine). Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your doctor. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, restart medication and advise your doctor or pharmacist.

Store Symmetrel (amantadine) at room temperature (59 to 86 degrees F) in a tight fitting container. Protect from moisture, heat and direct light.