Amantadine

Information About Amantadine

Uses of Amantadine

Amantadine is commonly used to treat influenza a flu, parkinson's disease, herpes zoster, prophylaxis for influenza a and drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms

How Amantadine Works

Amantadine is dopamine agonist which also have peripheral anti-muscarinic activity. It also inhibits the replication of influenza A virus although the mechanism is not known.

Side Effects of Amantadine

Headache, Dizziness, Difficulty sleeping, Confusion, Hallucination, Hypotension, Palpitation, Lethargy, Dry mouth, Rash

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Amantadine Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

Alcohol may exacerbate or potentiates the central nervous effects of Amantadine such as dizziness and confusion.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Adverse effects on animal and human study have been recorded on the fetus development in both type of studies. Amantadine is contraindicated in pregnancy unless no other options suitable for the pregnant women.

Lactation Limited Data

Amantadine has been reported to be excreted into the human breastmilk. Caution should be taken and careful risk and benefit outcome for the mother and baby should be evaluated before taking Amantadine.

Driving Not advisable

Amantadine has known for the adverse effects such as dizziness, confusion and headache all which can affect one's ability to drive.

Kidney High Risk

Dose adjustment is needed in mild to moderate renal impairment while Amantadine is contraindicated in severe renal impairment patient.

Liver Use With Care

Dose adjustment may be needed in patient with hepatic impairment as rare side effects such as elevated liver enzymes has been reported.