What is this medication for?
Amantadine is used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and for the short-term management of Parkinson-like symptoms caused by certain medications. It is also used for the prevention and treatment of influenza A infections.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Amantadine Hydrochloride by Actavis Mid-Atlantic is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended adult dose of amantadine varies according to the condition being treated.
For treatment of Parkinson's disease, the recommended adult dose is 100 mg once or twice daily. The recommended maximum daily dose for treatment of Parkinson's disease is 400 mg in divided doses. The recommended dose for treatment of drug-induced Parkinson-like symptoms is the 100 mg twice daily, and may be increased to a maximum of 300 mg daily in divided doses.
For treatment and prevention of influenza A infections, the recommended adult dose is 200 mg daily in one dose or two divided doses. For people over 65 years of age, the recommended daily dose is 100 mg.
The dose of amantadine for children is determined by their doctor and based on body weight.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Amantadine should not be used by anyone who is allergic to amantadine or to any of the ingredients of the medication.
