Amantadine (By mouth)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to amantadine.

Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
If you are using this medicine for the flu (influenza type A), keep using it for the full treatment time.

Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking thioridazine (Mellaril®), triamterene/HCTZ (Dyazide®), sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (Bactrim®, Septra®), quinine or quinidine (Quinidex®, Quinaglute®), diet pills, or medicine to treat stomach disorders, urinary problems (incontinence), diarrhea, or mental disorders.
The nasal flu vaccine (live attenuated influenza vaccine, Flumist®) should not be given in the 2 weeks before or 48 hours after taking this medicine.
Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, low blood pressure, swelling or water retention, epilepsy, or a history of seizures. Tell your doctor if you also have a history of eczema or neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS).
Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you stop it completely.
This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
If you are using this medicine for Parkinson's disease, it is important that your doctor check your skin regularly for signs of a skin cancer called melanoma. If you notice any unusual red, brown, or black spots on your skin, talk to your doctor right away.
Some people who have used this medicine had unusual changes in their behavior. Talk with your doctor right away if you start having problems with gambling or an increased interest in sex while using this medicine.
Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Change in how much or how often you urinate.
Chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
Fever, fast heartbeat, mood changes, uncontrolled muscle movements, or rapid breathing.
Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting.
Problems with urination.
Purplish red, net-like, blotchy spots on the skin.
Problems with balance or walking.
Seizures.
Slow or irregular heartbeat.
Shortness of breath, cold sweats, and bluish-colored skin.
Swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet.
Unusual thoughts or behavior, thoughts of hurting yourself.

Last Updated: 1/27/2017