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Amantadine
Amantadine is often prescribed to help people who have the flu, Parkinson's disease, or certain side effects caused by other medications. This medication is typically taken once or twice a day. While most people have no problems with amantadine, side effects can include insomnia, dizziness, and nausea. Before beginning treatment, tell your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking.
Amantadine hydrochloride (Symmetrel®) is a prescription medication approved for the following uses:
- Preventing and treating certain types of flu
- Treating Parkinson's disease and other similar conditions
- Treating certain side effects of other medications, known as "extrapyramidal symptoms" (such as movement disorders caused by antipsychotic medications).
(Click What Is Amantadine Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with amantadine. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects include but are not limited to:
- Nausea
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Insomnia.
(Click Amantadine Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD