Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Amantadine is utilized for addressing the symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease (PD). It is also employed to manage movement difficulties that can arise as a side effect of specific medications utilized in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Amantadine additionally serves to prevent symptoms associated with influenza A virus infection and is used in the treatment of respiratory infections caused by this virus.
This medication belongs to a class of drugs referred to as adamantanes. It is believed to alleviate movement problems by augmenting the levels of dopamine in specific areas of the body. Regarding its effectiveness against the influenza A virus, amantadine functions by impeding the virus’s proliferation within the body.
Uses and Dosage
Amantadine is available in various forms, including capsules, extended-release capsules, tablets, extended-release tablets, and liquid, all designed for oral administration. Capsules, tablets, and liquid medications are typically taken once or twice a day, while the extended-release capsules are taken once daily at bedtime, and the extended-release tablets are taken once daily in the morning.
Establish a consistent schedule by taking amantadine at roughly the same time each day. Take amantadine precisely as prescribed; avoid taking more or less than instructed or increasing the frequency beyond your doctor’s recommendations.
When taking extended-release capsules or tablets, they should be swallowed whole and should not be split, chewed, or crushed. If you encounter difficulty swallowing the extended-release capsule, an alternative approach is to open the capsule and sprinkle its entire contents onto a teaspoonful of soft food, such as applesauce. Consume the mixture promptly and swallow it without chewing.
For those using amantadine to manage Parkinson’s disease, your doctor may initiate treatment with a low dose and gradually adjust it as needed.
Discontinuing amantadine should be done under the guidance of your doctor. Abruptly stopping the medication may lead to symptoms like fever, confusion, alterations in mental state, or severe muscle stiffness. Typically, your doctor will gradually reduce your dose to minimize these potential withdrawal effects.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dry mouth
- constipation
- nausea
- vomiting
- decreased appetite
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- abnormal dreams
- headache
- confusion
- drowsiness
- tiredness
- uncontrollable tightening of muscles, change from normal walking, and falls
- lace-like purple pattern on skin
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- hallucinations
- believing things that are not true
- not trusting others or feeling that others want to hurt you
- depression
- anxiety
- suicidal (thinking about harming or killing oneself or planning or trying to do so)
- lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern
- dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, or blurred vision
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- difficulty urinating
- shortness of breath
Caution
Prior to initiating amantadine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any known allergies, especially if you are allergic to amantadine itself, rimantadine, or any other substances. This medication may contain inactive ingredients capable of triggering allergic reactions or other adverse effects.
Before commencing this treatment, you should also share your medical history with your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Particular attention should be given to conditions such as glaucoma, peripheral edema (swelling of arms/legs), heart problems like heart failure, blood pressure issues such as dizziness when standing, kidney disease, liver disease, mental health conditions including depression and psychosis, a history of seizures, or a specific skin condition known as eczematoid dermatitis.
Amantadine might induce dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, and the use of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate these effects. Refrain from activities requiring alertness or clear vision, such as driving or operating machinery, until you are confident in your ability to perform them safely.
For individuals taking this medication to manage Parkinson’s disease, exercise caution and not engage in excessive physical activity as your condition improves, as this may increase the risk of falls. Consult your doctor to establish a gradual plan for increasing physical activity as your symptoms improve.
Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects associated with this drug.
In the context of pregnancy, amantadine should only be used when the potential benefits clearly outweigh the risks. Engage in a thorough discussion with your doctor to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of using this medication during pregnancy.
Furthermore, amantadine can pass into breast milk, potentially leading to undesirable effects in a nursing infant. Consult with your doctor before breastfeeding while using this medication.
Form and Strength
Symmetrel is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
amantadine capsule:
- 100mg
FAQ
How do you know if Symmetrel is working?
If you’re taking Symmetrel for Parkinson’s disease, you should have fewer tremors. You should also feel less rigid and be able to move more smoothly.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Symmetrel?
Combining alcohol with Symmetrel can cause dizziness, confusion, lightheadedness, and a drop in your blood pressure. Drinking alcohol isn’t recommended while you’re taking Symmetrel.
Resources
- https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/amantadine-oral-capsule#:~:text=If%20your%20symptoms%20are%20severe,able%20to%20move%20more%20smoothly
- https://www.goodrx.com/amantadine/what-is#faqs
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/amantadine-oral-route/description/drg-20061695
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682064.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1239/symmetrel-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/symmetrel.html
