Amantadine Side Effects (Cont.)

Bothersome Amantadine Side Effects

Amantadine has been thoroughly studied in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and then compared to the side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. As a result, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine. Some side effects of amantadine are merely bothersome, while others may be more serious.
 
In these studies, the most common bothersome side effects (occurring in 5 to 10 percent of people) included:
 
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Insomnia.
     
Other common bothersome amantadine side effects (occurring in 1 to 5 percent of people) included:
 
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dry mouth
  • Constipation
  • Livedo reticularis, a vascular disorder that causes purple, mottled skin
  • Headaches
  • Drowsiness
  • Nervousness
  • Unusual dreams
  • Dry nose
  • Diarrhea
  • Fatigue.
     

Final Thoughts on Amantadine Side Effects

You may experience some or none of the amantadine side effects listed in this article. Unfortunately, it is difficult to tell whether any particular side effect (such as fatigue) is actually caused by amantadine or other factors (such as the flu itself). Therefore, make sure to let your healthcare provider know if you develop any side effects while taking the drug or if something "just does not seem right." While it may not be a side effect of amantadine, your healthcare provider will be able to diagnose and treat the problem.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;