Amantadine (symmetrel)
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Amantadine (symmetrel) is used to treat Parkinson's
disease and conditions similar to those of Parkinson's disease.
It also is used to prevent and treat respiratory infections
caused by influenza A virus.
How should this medicine be used?
Amantadine comes as a capsule and liquid to take by mouth. It
is usually taken once or twice a day. Follow the directions on
your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or
pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take
amantadine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it
or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not
stop taking amantadine without talking to your doctor.
If this medication causes insomnia (difficulty sleeping), take
the last dose several hours before bedtime.
What special precautions should I
follow? Before taking amantadine,
• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to
amantadine or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and
nonprescription medications you are taking, especially
benztropine (Cogentin), hydrochlorothiazide with triamterene
(Maxzide, Dyazide), medication for depression, other medication
for Parkinson's disease, medication for spasms of the stomach
or intestines, stimulants, trihexyphenidyl (Artane), and
vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have epilepsy or any other type of
seizures, or have ever had heart, kidney, or liver disease,
heart failure, low blood pressure, recurring skin rash, or
mental illness.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become
pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while
taking amantadine, call your doctor immediately. Amantadine may
cause harm to the fetus.
• this medicine may cause blurred vision; be careful when
driving or doing things requiring alertness.
What special dietary instructions should I
follow?
Amantadine may cause an upset stomach. Take amantadine with
food or milk.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it
is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and
continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double
dose to make up for a missed one.
What side effects can this medication
cause?
Although side effects from amantadine are not common, they can
occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or
do not go away:
• blurred vision
• dizziness
• lightheadedness
• faintness
• trouble sleeping
If you experience any of the following side effects, call your
doctor immediately:
• depression or anxiety
• swelling of the hands, legs, or feet
• difficulty urinating
• shortness of breath
• rash
What storage conditions are needed for this
medication?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly
closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room
temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the
bathroom). Do not freeze. Throw away any medication that is
outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the
proper disposal of your medication.
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