GENERIC NAME: AMANTADINE - ORAL (uh-MAN-tuh-deen)

BRAND NAME(S): Symadine, Symmetrel

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat or prevent infections of the respiratory tract caused by a certain virus. It acts by slowing the growth of the virus. Amantadine is also used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease and to treat the side effects caused by certain psychiatric drugs.

HOW TO USE: This medication is best taken on an empty stomach, but may be taken with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. This medication works best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. If you are taking amantadine for a viral infection, begin taking it as soon as possible. Continue to take until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a relapse of the infection. In Parkinson's disease, the effects of the medication may not be apparent for several weeks. Do not suddenly stop taking the medication as an increase in symptoms may occur. Your doctor may want to reduce your dose gradually. If after several months, you notice the drug may not be as effective, contact your doctor. Tolerance can develop after long-term use.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause stomach upset, nausea, drowsiness, constipation, headache, dizziness, anxiety, or purplish-red blotchy spots on the skin during the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become severe, inform your doctor promptly. Notify your doctor if you develop: slurred speech, shortness of breath, swelling of the ankles/feet, unusual fatigue, vision disturbances, difficulty urinating, skin rash, mental/mood changes (sometimes severe, including rare thoughts of suicide), muscle stiffness, uncontrolled muscle movements, unusual sweating, fast heartbeat, unexplained fever. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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