AMANTADINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Background and Date of Approval

Amantadine hydrochloride received FDA approval on 24/08/2017 for treatment of uncontrolled, involuntary muscle movements in patients with Parkinson's disease.

Uses

To treat symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, such as muscle stiffness, tremors, and slow movement To improve movement control and coordination To help reduce difficulty in daily activities like walking, dressing, or writing To support better quality of life in patients with movement disorders

How is it administered?

Amantadine hydrochloride is administered orally and is available in capsule, tablet, and oral solution formulations. It is typically taken once or twice daily, depending on the clinical indication and patient-specific factors, and may be taken with or without food, although taking it with food can help minimize gastrointestinal upset. Doses are generally scheduled earlier in the day to reduce the risk of insomnia. Because amantadine is primarily eliminated by the kidneys, dose adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment, and abrupt discontinuation should be avoided, with gradual tapering recommended when stopping therapy.

Side Effects

Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all medicines cause side effects, not everyone gets them. Serious Convulsions (fits) Fainting Common Swollen ankles Red blotchy spots on the skin Depression and confusion Difficulty sleeping Nightmares and feeling nervous Headache Dizziness Difficulty in controlling movements Slurred speech Fast or irregular heartbeat Low blood pressure when standing up. constipation Sweating Dry mouth

Warnings

Do not take amantadine if you are allergic to amantadine hydrochloride or any of its components. Avoid use if you have lactose intolerance, epilepsy (seizures), peptic ulcers, or severe kidney disease. Amantadine is not recommended during pregnancy, when planning pregnancy, or while breastfeeding unless clearly advised by a doctor. Consult your doctor before use if you have liver or kidney problems, heart disease, mental health disorders (such as schizophrenia), or glaucoma. Always inform your doctor about your complete medical history and all medications you are taking before starting amantadine treatment.

Precautions

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as amantadine is not advisable during pregnancy due to potential risk to the baby. Avoid amantadine while breastfeeding, as the medicine can pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before taking amantadine if you have lung or liver disease. Avoid alcohol during treatment, as it may increase side effects. Use caution when driving or operating machinery, as amantadine may cause dizziness or blurred vision

References

Alliance Pharmaceuticals, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on Jan 2023] [Accessed on 3rd Oct 2023] https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/12143/pil Vertical Pharmaceuticals, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), [Revised on Feb 2018] [Accessed on 3rd Oct 2023] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/209410s000lbl.pdf Carol Chang et al; Amantadine; National Library of Medicine; Published on April 2023; Accessed on 03/10/2022; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499953/ Kd Tripathi, Essentials Of Medical Pharmacology, Drugs Acting On Central Nervous System, 8th Edition, 2019, 459-460 Goodman & Gilman's, The Pharmacological Basis Of Therapeutics, Chemotherapy Of Infectious Diseases, 13th Edition, 2018, 1112-1114

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stop taking amantadine hydrochloride?

Do not stop taking Amantadine hydrochloride suddenly, even if you feel better, without a doctor's advice. Stopping suddenly may cause worsening symptoms or side effects such as fever, rapid heartbeat, or loss of bladder control. Your doctor will decide when and how to reduce the dose gradually.

Should amantadine be taken with food?

Taking amantadine with food or milk is recommended to avoid an upset stomach. Also, taking the last dose several hours before bedtime can prevent insomnia.

Can amantadine harm the kidneys?

Yes, amantadine is mostly removed from the body through the kidneys. If your kidneys are not working well, amantadine can build up in your blood, causing more side effects and potential harm.

Can amantadine disrupt sleep?

Yes, People taking the recommended dose of amantadine commonly experience side effects such as nausea, difficulty sleeping, and feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness.

Is amantadine effective for nerve pain?

Amantadine is a safe and effective option for promptly treating surgical neuropathic pain in individuals with cancer.

Available Brands 1

Written By: Muskan Patel, M.Pharm

Reviewed By: Dr. Vishwa Patel, MBBS