Amantadine

Amantadine is an antiviral drug. It is often prescribed for the prevention of viral infection. It was initially licensed to treat and prevent influenza A during flu season.  Later, it was found that it causes improvement in the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. It helps relieve the pain associated with shingles caused by the herpes zoster virus. It is often prescribed off-label by doctors to help treat fatigue in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Amantadine belongs to the group of drug known as Adamantanes. It helps control movement problems due to an increasing amount of dopamine in the body. It acts directly on the central nervous system. It stimulates the production of dopamine which in return regulating also the movement and the ability to experience pain and pleasure. It works against the virus in the body by stopping them from spreading.

Why Buy Amantadine?

Amantadine is an inexpensive drug for Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. Unlike other anti- Parkinsonian medication, the side effects of this drug are relatively mild. It is available both as generic and brand names.  The generic name is cheaper than the brand names but their active ingredient is the same. Both versions also have the same mechanism of action.

How to Take Amantadine?

Amantadine comes in capsule form that you have to take by mouth. Take it exactly as directed by your physician. Your dose is based on your condition, the severity of your symptoms and other medications you are taking.

• The required dose in managing patients with MS is 200 mg a day.
• The required dose for shingles is one tablet of 200 mg two times a day for 14 days.
• For Parkinson’s disease, the initial dose is one tablet a day. The dose may increase to two tablets a day after one week of treatment.

Take this medication with or without food.

Things to Remember

• Do not stop taking this medication without telling your doctor if you are taking it for Parkinson’s disease.
• Elderly people, patients with kidney, liver and heart problems must use this medication with care.
• Patients with severe kidney disease, epilepsy, stomach ulcer and untreated closed-angle glaucoma must not use this medication.
• This medication is not suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
• Amantadine may cause unwanted side effects like any other medications. In case of serious side effects like seizure and allergic reactions, seek medical attention as soon as possible.