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  


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