Amantadine
Amantadine Hydrochloride
Amantadine Hydrochloride is an antiviral and antiparkinsonian medication approved by the FDA. It is primarily used to treat & prevent influenza A virus infections and to manage symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. It contains amantadine, which works by inhibiting viral replication and influencing levels of dopamine in the brain. It is available in the form of tablets and capsules with varying strengths and can be taken orally by mouth. For a safe and efficient use of the medication, you should take it exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. This medication is suitable for use in children and adults after consulting a doctor. If you want to buy Amantadine Hydrochloride for Parkinson’s disease, obtain it from trusted and reputable sources.
Product Overview
Amantadine Hydrochloride is an FDA-approved medication that contains amantadine, an antiviral and antiparkinsonian agent primarily used to prevent & treat influenza A virus infections and to manage symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. It functions by inhibiting viral replication and influencing dopamine levels in the brain, which alleviates movement-related symptoms such as stiffness and tremors.
This prescription medication is available in strengths such as 100 mg per capsule or tablet. It should be taken exactly as prescribed by a medical provider, usually once or twice daily, with or without food. Amantadine is suitable for adults and children, but its use should be determined by a licensed healthcare professional based on individual medical conditions. It helps manage Parkinson’s disease by increasing dopamine activity, improving muscle control, and reducing fatigue and rigidity.
Common side effects of Amantadine Hydrochloride may include dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, and sleep disturbances. Serious side effects such as hallucinations, swelling, or shortness of breath require immediate medical attention. Individuals should avoid driving a car or operating machinery unless they can do such activities safely. If a dose of Amantadine Hydrochloride is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, but skipped if it’s almost time for the next dose. In case of an amantadine overdose, seek emergency medical help. Store Amantadine at a controlled temperature, away from moisture, light, and heat, and keep it out of reach of children. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance to ensure safe and effective use.
What Are the Uses of Amantadine Hydrochloride?
It is used to:
- Prevent or treat influenza
- Treat Parkinson’s disease or symptoms that are similar to Parkinson’s disease.
- Treatment of drug-induced movement issues, also called extrapyramidal reactions
What Are the Forms & Strengths of Amantadine Hydrochloride?
It is available in the following forms and strengths:
Form: Immediate-release tablets
Strength: 100mg
Form: Extended-release tablets
Strength: 129mg, 193mg & 258mg
Form: Extended-release capsules
Strength: 137mg & 274mg
What Is the Recommended Dosage of Amantadine Hydrochloride?
The recommended dosage of Amantadine Hydrochloride is based on multiple factors such as the patient’s age, the medical condition being treated, and their tolerability. It also depends on the strength and duration of the medication being administered. The dosage mentioned here is applicable to everyone and may vary from individual to individual. If your doctor has instructed you to take Amantadine at a different dosage, you should follow their directions closely and avoid making changes to your dosage without consulting them first, as it can cause harm.
Dosage for Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease or Movement Problems including Dyskinesia
Extended-release capsules
- Adults: 137mg once each day at bedtime. Based on your needs and response to the treatment, your doctor may change your dosage after a week to 274mg once daily at bedtime.
- Children: Your doctor may determine your usage and dosage.
Extended-release tablets
- Adults: 129mg once daily in the morning. Your doctor may increase the dosage each week to a maximum dosage of 322 mg once daily, usually in the morning, unless instructed otherwise.
- Children: The usage and dosage should be determined by a licensed healthcare professional.
For Treatment and Prevention of Flu
Tablets and Capsules
- Adults: 200mg or four teaspoonfuls once daily as a single dosage.
- Geriatric patients: Initially, 100mg once daily as a single dose.
- Children 1-9 years of age: Your dosage is based on body weight, and the usage and dosage should be determined by a licensed healthcare professional.
- Children 9-12 years of age: 100mg or two spoonfuls twice each day.
- For children less than 1 year of age, your doctor will determine the usage & dosage.
[Note: Remember, the above-recommended dosage may vary from individual to individual. Discuss it with your physician or medical giver, and they will customize your medication dosage accordingly.]
How to Use Amantadine Hydrochloride?
- Before you start taking Amantadine Hydrochloride for the first time and each time you get a refill, refer to the patient information leaflet & the medication guide given by your pharmacist or medical provider. If you have any questions or difficulty understanding any part of this leaflet, you should contact your doctor.
- Take Amantadine exactly as your doctor has instructed you, with or without food, typically at bedtime. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose based on your needs and response to treatment.
- If you use Amantadine to treat influenza A, you should start taking the medication within 24 to 48 hours after flu symptoms begin. You should continue taking the medicine for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before your infection is completely cleared.
- If you are using the oral form of Amantadine, measure the solution carefully using a special measuring device or spoon, as a household spoon may not measure the right amount of liquid. If you do not have a measuring syringe or device, consult your pharmacist or healthcare professional.
- If you use the capsule or tablet form of Amantadine, do not crush, break, or chew it. Swallow it as a whole with a full glass of water. If you have difficulty swallowing the capsules whole, you may open them, sprinkle their contents into a spoonful of applesauce, and swallow them immediately. Do not keep it for later.
- Call your physician if your symptoms do not improve, or if you have a fever with cough, headache, skin rash, or other worrisome symptoms.
- If you are taking Amantadine for the management of Parkinson’s disease, you should not stop using it abruptly, or your condition may become worse. Abruptly stopping the drug may cause your condition to worsen suddenly or lead to withdrawal symptoms. If you plan to discontinue using Amantadine, ask your physician how you can do it safely. They are most likely to recommend you gradually decrease the dosage.
- Do not share Amantadine Hydrochloride with other people, even if they have the same condition as you.
- Do not use Amantadine Hydrochloride unless it has been prescribed by a licensed healthcare practitioner.
- Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it worsens.
[Note: Your doctor will decide the appropriate amount for you based on your medical condition, following guidelines & studies on the drug. They will adjust it as required over time.]
How Does Amantadine Hydrochloride Work?
Amantadine Hydrochloride has two mechanisms of action, depending on its use. For antiviral action, it inhibits the replication of the influenza A virus. It also interferes with the function of the viral M2 protein, which is crucial for the virus’s ability to release its genetic material into the host cell. This prevents the virus from spreading within the body. Whereas for Parkinson’s disease, Amantadine increases the release of dopamine in the brain and blocks dopamine reuptake. It also has weak antagonistic effects on NDMA receptors, which may help reduce movement-related symptoms such as dyskinesia and off episodes.
Important Safety Information for Using Amantadine Hydrochloride
What Are the Side Effects of Amantadine Hydrochloride?
Commonly occuring side effects of Amantadine Hydrochloride: Similar to other medicines, Amantadine Hydrochloride can cause certain temporary side effects in some people using it. These side effects usually resolve on their own without the need for medical intervention within a few days or weeks as your body adjusts to the drug. However, if these symptoms persist or become bothersome, you should talk to a licensed healthcare professional. Common side effects of Amantadine Hydrochloride include:
- Nausea: Amantadine Hydrochloride can cause some users to feel nauseated. To manage this side effect, you should take this medication with food or a milky drink. If nausea persists, you should discuss with your doctor or healthcare provider for potential adjustments or additional remedies.
- Lightheadedness or dizziness: These side effects may be caused by the medication’s effect on blood pressure and the activity of the nervous system. To minimize the risk of dizziness, you should slowly rise from sitting or lying positions to prevent sudden drops in blood pressure. You should avoid engaging in activities that need mental alertness, such as driving a car or using heavy machinery unless you determine how this medication affects you. If dizziness continues, discuss it with your doctor or healthcare provider.
- Falling and injuring yourself: The combination of lightheadedness, dizziness, and potential blood pressure changes increases the risk of falling and injuring yourself, especially in older adults using Amantadine Hydrochloride. To prevent this risk, you should implement all fall prevention strategies, such as removing home hazards, using assistive devices, and ensuring adequate lighting. You should not go up or down the stairs if you are experiencing lightheadedness or dizziness. You should monitor your balance and coordination carefully and report any concerns to your doctor or healthcare provider.
- Trouble Sleeping: Due to its stimulating effects, some amantadine users may experience insomnia or difficulty sleeping. You can take the medication earlier in the day to reduce the risk of sleep disturbances. You can also start following a consistent sleep routine & create a comfortable sleeping environment to improve the quality of your sleep. If sleeping issues persist, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider.
- Hallucinations: Some individuals using Amantadine Hydrochloride may experience hallucinations, particularly at higher doses or if they have pre-existing neurological conditions. If you notice visual or auditory hallucinations, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Dose adjustments or additional treatments may be necessary to manage this side effect.
- Dry Mouth: Amantadine’s anticholinergic properties can reduce saliva production, causing dry mouth. To relieve this side effect, you should stay adequately hydrated throughout the day, chew sugar-free gums, or use saliva substitutes. Maintaining good oral hygiene is also beneficial in preventing dental issues associated with dry mouth.
- Peripheral edema: Swelling of the hands, feet, or legs may occur as a side effect. Elevating the affected limbs and reducing salt intake can help manage swelling. If swelling persists or worsens, inform your doctor, as this may require further evaluation or treatment adjustments.
- Constipation: This medication can slow down gastrointestinal motility, causing constipation. To promote bowel regularity, you should increase your intake of fiber in your diet, stay hydrated throughout the day & daily engage in physical exercise. If constipation remains an issue, discuss the use of over-the-counter laxatives or other interventions with your healthcare provider.
- Orthostatic Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure Upon Standing): This medical condition involves a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing, which can lead to dizziness or fainting. To prevent this, rise slowly from sitting or lying positions and avoid jerky movements. Wearing compression stockings and staying hydrated may also help. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor for potential treatment modifications.
Serious side effects of Amantadine Hydrochloride: In rare cases, Amantadine Hydrochloride can cause severe side effects in some users that require immediate medical attention. These serious symptoms can become life-threatening if they are not treated immediately. If you experience any of the signs and symptoms given below, you should seek prompt medical assistance by calling a licensed healthcare professional or 911. Your doctor has prescribed you this medication after determining that the benefits associated with its use outweigh its risks. Its severe side effects may include:
- Severe allergic reactions: This medication can cause allergic reactions, which can become serious in some cases. You should not use Amantadine Hydrochloride if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients present in the medicine. Discontinue use of this product and get immediate medical help if you experience any of the following symptoms of a severe allergic reaction. These include wheezing, swollen lymph nodes, fever or general feeling of illness, trouble swallowing, itching, rash, hives, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, stomach cramps, or joint pain.
- Suicidal thoughts or behavior: Amantadine Hydrochloride can cause suicidal ideation or actions in a small number of individuals, especially young adults and adolescents. These symptoms may even occur in individuals who do not have a history of mental health issues. If you are having suicidal thoughts or are about to cause harm to yourself, you should call 911 or message 988 (the Suicide and Crisis Helpline). If you, your family members, or caregivers notice that you have any of the following symptoms, seek medical assistance by calling a healthcare professional. Symptoms include new or increased thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts, new or increased feelings of depression, anxiety, or unusual mood or behavioral changes.
- Sleepiness of falling asleep: This medication can cause some individuals to fall asleep, even without feeling sleepy. This can happen while doing simple daily activities such as eating or talking with someone. Immediately call your doctor or medical provider if this happens to you. You should not drive a car or indulge in activities that require mental alertness or coordination unless you know how this medication affects you.
- Hallucinations: Amantadine Hydrochloride can cause hallucinations or worsen psychotic-like behavior. Tell your physician or healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms or if you have been told by others that you have bothersome symptoms, including delusional thoughts, feeling paranoid, and perceiving things that others do not.
- Orthostatic hypotension: Some patients using Amantadine Hydrochloride can experience a sudden drop in their blood pressure when standing up from a seated or lying position after a long period. To prevent this side effect, you should not get up too quickly after sitting or lying down for an extended period of time and avoid jerky movements. If you feel lightheaded or dizzy, immediately sit or lie down until the dizziness subsides. Take your time getting up. Immediately report to your doctor if you experience dizziness, blurred vision, confusion, weakness, or lightheadedness.
- Unusual or compulsive behavior: This medication can cause some individuals to have strong, unusual, and uncontrollable urges such as sex, gambling, or eating. Let your doctor or healthcare provider know if you or someone you know notices that you have new or worsening behavior or urges.
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: You should not decrease your medication dosage or discontinue Amantadine Hydrochloride without first talking to your doctor or healthcare provider. Discontinuing amantadine too quickly can cause a severe symptom known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Call your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any of the following symptoms when decreasing your dose or stopping amantadine. These include muscle stiffness, heart rate or breathing changes, high fever, confusion, or increased sweating.
[Note: Remember, the above list may not cover all possible side effects of Amantadine Hydrochloride. Always consult with your medical giver for personalized advice and guidance about side effects.]
Are There Any Warnings for Amantadine Hydrochloride?
- People who have Parkinson’s disease may have an increased risk of melanoma. Talk to your physician about this risk and what skin symptoms you should watch out for.
- It is still not known if Amantadine will cause harm to an unborn fetus. Let your doctor know if you are pregnant, plan to get pregnant, or suspect a pregnancy.
- Do not breast-feed an infant while using Amantadine Hydrochloride.
- This medication is not approved for use in children younger than one-year-old.
What Are the Amantadine Hydrochloride Precautions?
- Before using Amantadine Hydrochloride, you should tell your doctor about your complete family and medical history, especially if you have or have ever had cardiovascular issues, renal conditions, liver problems, seizures, sleep problems, a severe infection of the kidney or bladder, glaucoma, sleep problems, a history of skin problems, mental health problems, a history of skin issues, low blood pressure, swelling under the skin, and renal tubular acidosis.
- Before using this medication, tell your doctor about all medicines you are using or plan to use, including prescription, non-prescription, and over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and vitamin or mineral supplements. This information will help them decide whether Amantadine Hydrochloride is suitable for you.
- Before using Amantadine Hydrochloride, talk to your doctor and discuss with them if you need to receive any vaccinations. You should not receive certain vaccines, such as nasal flu vaccination, immediately before or during the use of Amantadine. Also, tell them about any vaccinations you have received or scheduled.
- This medication may have potential drug interactions with other medicines and supplements. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are using.
- This medication passes into breast milk. Let your physician or healthcare professional know if you are breastfeeding a baby or plan to breastfeed while using this medication. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should continue using Amantadine Hydrochloride while breastfeeding an infant.
- You should not use Amantadine Hydrochloride unless a licensed healthcare provider has prescribed it to you.
- Do not share Amantadine with others, even if they have the same condition as you, as it can cause harm to them.
- If you are taking Amantadine Hydrochloride for preventing or treating Parkinson’s disease, you should not discontinue using it without talking to your doctor or healthcare provider. Abruptly discontinuation of the drug without consulting your doctor can lead to severe issues such as worsening of Parkinson’s disease, depression, agitation, and hallucinations. Get in touch with your medical provider if you need to discontinue the drug. They will help you taper off the drug by gradually decreasing its dosage.
- If you are using the liquid form of Amantadine Hydrochloride, you should use an accurate measuring device including a syringe or a calibrated medicine spoon. A household spoon may fail to provide accurate medication dosage and may cause you to take the wrong dose. If you do not have an appropriate medication measuring device, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- This medication can affect your mental alertness and cause blurry vision. You should not drive or engage in other activities that require mental alertness/clear vision unless you know how this medication affects you.
- Individuals who are at least 65 years of age may have an increased risk of having some side effects associated with the drug. Talk to your medical provider if you belong to this age group and have any risk factors that concern you.
- While taking this medication, you should monitor your skin for changes and make appointments with your doctor or dermatologist to have your skin checked.
- You should avoid intake of alcohol while being treated with Amantadine Hydrochloride as alcohol may change how quickly Amantadine gets into your bloodstream. The risk of experiencing certain side effects, such as confusion, dizziness, and sleepiness, may be greater if you consume alcohol while using Amantadine.
- This medication can cause lightheadedness or dizziness, especially if you stand up after sitting/lying down for extended periods. To prevent this, avoid jerky movements and rise slowly after sitting or lying down. Also, be careful while going up or down the stairs to minimize your risk of falling and injuring yourself.
- People taking Amantadine Hydrochloride have experienced heat stroke. You should be careful when under the sun during hot weather and during physical activity.
- If you have renal conditions, you should talk to your doctor or healthcare professional. Deaths have happened in individuals with renal issues whose dose was too high for their renal function.
What Are the Contraindications of Amantadine Hydrochloride?
Amantadine Hydrochloride is contraindicated for use in patients who have:
- Allergic to amantadine or any other ingredients present in the product.
- Severe renal disease
- Received a live nasal flu vaccine
What If You Miss a Dose of Amantadine Hydrochloride?
- If you have missed taking the tablet, liquid, or capsule form of Amantadine Hydrochloride, you should take it as soon as you think of it unless it is almost time to take your next dose. In such cases, you may skip the missed dosage of the medication and only take the next dose as per the regular dosage schedule. You should not take double or extra doses of the same medicine you are using to make up for the omitted dose, as it can cause unwanted side effects.
- If you have missed a dose of Amantadine Hydrochloride extended-release capsule, you should omit the missed dose and take your next dose as per the regular dosage schedule. If you have missed two or more Amantadine Hydrochloride doses in a row, ask your doctor what to do. Avoid taking extra or double dosages of the same drug, as it can have unfavorable side effects.
- If you are still unable to determine what should be done, get in touch with your doctor or healthcare provider.
[Note: If you have missed a dose of Amantadine Hydrochloride and are not sure about when to take the next dose, discuss with your doctor or pharmacist immediately.]
What Happens If You Take Too Much of Amantadine Hydrochloride?
You should not use Amantadine Hydrochloride more than the prescribed dose or more often than recommended, as it can lead to an overdose. Symptoms of an Amantadine overdose may include seizures, hallucinations, arrhythmias & renal impairment. If you or someone has overdosed and is experiencing severe symptoms, seek medical assistance promptly by calling a healthcare professional or 911. You can also go to the nearest medical care centre.
[Note: If you think you may have consumed Amantadine Hydrochloride more than the recommended dosage, seek immediate medical assistance, or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]
How to Store Amantadine Hydrochloride?
- You should keep Amantadine Hydrochloride tablets and capsules in a cool and dry place, at room temperature, away from direct exposure to sunlight, moisture, and excess heat.
- Do not keep it in the bathroom, under the sink, or in other places with high humidity.
- Keep all medicines, including Amantadine Hydrochloride, in a safe place, such as a high cupboard, away from the reach and sight of children and pets.
- If the medication you are using is no longer needed or is outdated, you should dispose of it immediately in such a way that it does not let children, animals, and other people consume it.
- With that being said, you should not throw unwanted medicines in the household garbage bin, flush them down the toilet, or pour them into the drain unless instructed otherwise by a healthcare professional.
- For more information on how to properly dispose of unwanted or outdated medicines, you should talk to your pharmacist or healthcare professional.
[Note: Get in touch with your healthcare provider and discuss with them about the proper storage and disposal of any unused medicine & any queries you may have regarding its storage.]
What Medications Interact with Amantadine Hydrochloride?
Certain medicines may interact with Amantadine Hydrochloride and reduce its effectiveness or increase your risk of experiencing unwanted side effects. You should tell your doctor or healthcare provider about all medications you are using or plan to use, including all herbs, vitamin or mineral supplements, prescription, or over-the-counter drugs.
- Abilify (aripiprazole)
- Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
- Rytary (carbidopa / levodopa)
- Seroquel (quetiapine)
- Sinemet (carbidopa / levodopa)
- Sinemet CR (carbidopa / levodopa)
- Sleep medications
- Motion sickness medications
- Sodium bicarbonate
What Are the Other Amantadine Hydrochloride Interactions?
Other than medications, there are certain diseases and conditions that can affect the effectiveness of Amantadine Hydrochloride. These may include
- Depression
- Renal dysfunction
- Hypotension
- Psychosis
- CHF/edema
- Seizure disorders
[Note: This is not a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Amantadine Hydrochloride. Tell your doctor or healthcare provider about any prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products you are taking.]
What Are the Amantadine Hydrochloride Alternatives?
While Amantadine Hydrochloride is an effective treatment option, it may not suit everyone due to allergies or certain conditions. While many effective alternatives to this medicine are available on the market, you should not use them without consulting with your doctor first. Based on your age, condition, needs, and other factors, they will help you determine the medication that is most suitable for you to use. Some of the substitutes for Amantadine Hydrochloride may include:
- Inderal (propranolol)
- Tetrabenazine
- Valbenazine
- Deutetrabenazine
- Vitamin e
- Clonidine
[Note: Your doctor will help you determine what’s best for you. You should not use any of these alternative medicines without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause unfavorable side effects.]
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of amantadine?
Amantadine Hydrochloride effectively manages symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and muscle spasms in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. It can also reduce involuntary movements in patients already receiving levodopa-based treatment. It can also alleviate off-episodes, which are periods when their usual medicines stop working. It can also treat movement disorders caused by certain medications, known as extrapyramidal reactions.
Is amantadine used for anxiety?
Amantadine is not typically used as a first-line treatment for anxiety. However, it has shown potential as a supplementary treatment for treatment-resistant OCD, ADHD, and anxiety. Its effectiveness in these cases is thought to be due to its ability to inhibit NMDA receptors and stabilize the glutamatergic system. It is important to note that this indication is typically off-label.
Why is amantadine used for flu?
Amantadine is no longer used to treat flu due to widespread resistance. It was used to treat influenza A because it inhibits the M2 proton channel of the virus from releasing its genetic material into the host cell. This mechanism of action stops the virus from replicating and spreading.
Is amantadine safe for kidneys?
Yes, Amantadine is usually considered to be safe for the kidneys. People with renal issues can use it, but it may require dosage adjustments & close monitoring for unwanted side effects. In individuals with severe renal impairment, the clearance of amantadine is significantly reduced, which means the drug stays in the body longer. This medication is contraindicated for use in patients with end-stage renal disease.
What foods should I avoid while taking amantadine?
While being treated with Amantadine, you should avoid certain food items and beverages, such as alcohol and caffeine, which may interact with the drug and potentially cause side effects. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking amantadine, as it can increase the risk of central nervous system (CNS) depression and dangerously low blood pressure. You should also limit your intake of caffeine-containing foods and beverages. Avoid grapefruit juice and grapefruit, too, as it can potentially lead to higher levels of the medicine in your bloodstream and increased risk of side effects.
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