Amantadine: What It Treats and How to Use It Safely

Amantadine is a medicine used for Parkinson’s symptoms and as an antiviral for influenza A. Doctors prescribe it to reduce tremors, stiffness, and slowness in Parkinson’s disease, and sometimes to ease drug-induced movement problems. It works differently than common Parkinson’s drugs and can help when other medicines cause side effects.

For flu, amantadine used to shorten symptoms and prevent infection, but many flu strains are resistant today. That means it’s less useful for routine flu treatment now. Always follow current public health guidance—your doctor will know whether amantadine makes sense for a flu exposure or outbreak.

How to take amantadine

Take amantadine exactly as your doctor tells you. It usually comes as a pill or syrup. Typical doses vary by reason for use, age, and kidney function. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose—don’t double up. If you stop the drug suddenly and you were taking it long term for movement symptoms, tell your clinician first—sudden changes can make symptoms worse.

Older adults and people with kidney problems often need a lower dose. That’s because the body clears amantadine through the kidneys. Your provider may check kidney tests and adjust the schedule. Also watch for dizziness and confusion, which can increase fall risk—stand up slowly and avoid heavy machinery or driving until you know how the drug affects you.

Side effects, interactions, and safety tips

Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, loss of appetite, lightheadedness, and sleep problems. Less common but serious effects are hallucinations, severe confusion, mood changes, or sudden swelling from fluid retention. If you notice mental changes or breathing trouble, seek care right away.

Amantadine can interact with other medications. Combining it with anticholinergic drugs, certain antidepressants, or other Parkinson’s medicines may raise side effect risks. Alcohol can make dizziness and sedation worse. Tell your prescriber about all medicines, supplements, and medical conditions—especially kidney disease, heart conditions, or mental health history.

If you’re thinking about buying amantadine online, use a licensed pharmacy and a valid prescription. Avoid sites that sell prescription drugs without asking for a prescription. Check the pharmacy’s reviews, contact info, and whether it requires a prescription. If a price or delivery promise sounds too good to be true, it might be a scam.

Questions for your doctor: ask why amantadine is the best choice, how long to take it, signs of problems to watch for, and whether dose adjustments are needed for your kidneys. Keep a medication list and report any worrying symptoms quickly. With the right monitoring, amantadine can help manage symptoms—but it’s not the same fit for everyone.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding need special discussion—do not start amantadine without talking to your obstetrician. Children may need different doses or alternatives. Store the medicine at room temperature away from heat and moisture, out of reach of children. Dispose leftover tablets through a take-back program; don’t flush them down the toilet. Ask pharmacist.