Amantadine (Symmetrel)

Category:

• Antiviral

Indications:

• Influenza A virus respiratory tract illness

• Influenza A prophylaxis

• Parkinson’s disease

Precautions:

• Pregnancy category C

• Patients with a history of seizure should be closely monitored.

• Patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) require careful observation and dose titration.

• Dosing modification is required for patients with impaired renal function.

• May cause CNS effects or blurred vision, therefore use caution while driving.

• Do not discontinue medication abruptly, especially in patients with Parkinson’s disease.

• Notify healthcare provider is mood or mental status changes occur.

• Notify healthcare provider if anticholinergic side effects (difficult urination, dry mouth, constipation) occur.

  Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

• Nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, insomnia (5-10%)

• Blurred vision, headache

Dosage:

Administered as an oral capsule or syrup

Influenza A prophylaxis and acute treatment:

Adult:

• 200mg qd or 100mg bid and continue for 24-48 hours after symptoms subside

Children (9-12 years):

• 100mg bid

Children (1-9 years):

• 4.4-8.8mg/kg/day given qd or divided twice daily (not to exceed 150mg per day)