Amantadine Hydrochloride

Generic Name: amantadine hydrochloride

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Amantadine Hydrochloride

Amantadine hydrochloride is a white or practically white crystalline powder, freely soluble in water and soluble in alcohol and chloroform. Available as 100 mg capsules for oral administration.

Overview

Amantadine hydrochloride is a white or practically white crystalline powder, freely soluble in water and soluble in alcohol and chloroform. Available as 100 mg capsules for oral administration.

Uses

Indicated for prophylaxis and treatment of influenza A virus infection, and treatment of parkinsonism and drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions.

Dosage

Adult daily dosage is 200 mg (two 100 mg capsules as single daily dose or split into twice daily). For persons 65+ years: 100 mg daily. Pediatric dosing based on weight and age. Treatment should start within 24-48 hours of symptom onset.

Side Effects

Most frequent (5-10%): nausea, dizziness, insomnia. Less frequent (1-5%): depression, anxiety, hallucinations, dry mouth, constipation. Infrequent (0.1-1%): heart failure, psychosis, urinary retention, vision disturbances including corneal edema.

Interactions

Concurrent CNS stimulants require careful observation. Anticholinergic agents potentiate side effects. Quinine and quinidine reduce renal clearance by approximately 30%. Live attenuated influenza vaccine: avoid within 2 weeks before or 48 hours after amantadine.

Warnings

Deaths reported from overdose (lowest lethal dose: 1 gram). Risk of suicide attempts. CNS effects including seizures possible. Corneal edema reported with vision loss. Not for untreated angle closure glaucoma. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to amantadine.

Pregnancy

Limited adequate studies. Animal studies show embryonic death and malformations at high doses. Use only if potential benefit justifies fetal risk.

Storage

100 mg hard gelatin capsules (red cherry colored). Available in bottles of 100 and 500 capsules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Amantadine Hydrochloride used for?

Indicated for prophylaxis and treatment of influenza A virus infection, and treatment of parkinsonism and drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions.

What are the side effects of Amantadine Hydrochloride?

Most frequent (5-10%): nausea, dizziness, insomnia. Less frequent (1-5%): depression, anxiety, hallucinations, dry mouth, constipation. Infrequent (0.1-1%): heart failure, psychosis, urinary retention, vision disturbances including corneal edema.

Can I take Amantadine Hydrochloride during pregnancy?

Limited adequate studies. Animal studies show embryonic death and malformations at high doses. Use only if potential benefit justifies fetal risk.

What are the important warnings for Amantadine Hydrochloride?

Deaths reported from overdose (lowest lethal dose: 1 gram). Risk of suicide attempts. CNS effects including seizures possible. Corneal edema reported with vision loss. Not for untreated angle closure glaucoma. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to amantadine.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.