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)

Source: Operational Medicine 2001, Health Care in Military Settings, NAVMED P-5139, May 1, 2001, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Department of the Navy, 2300 E Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20372-5300