By introducing chloride ions to amantadine, amantadine HCL is formed. It increases the solution of this drug as absorption of the most drug by the body increases due to the presence of salts such as HCL or sulfates. So Amantadine HCL is Amantadine’s hydrochloride salt with antiviral and antiparkinsonian activities.
Why do doctors prescribe it?
It treats the symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. It is a disorder of the nervous system that creates difficulties with muscle control, balance, and movement along with other conditions. This drug also controls movement issues. These are some side effects of a few drugs that treat this disease. It works and controls movement issues by increasing the dopamine amount in some body parts.
Dosage of Amantadine
Take this drug by mouth. You can have it with some food. If your doctor asks avoid food while using it. You must take it one or two times every day. If you are using Amantadine HCL orally two times every day and face some sleeping trouble after using it, remember to take the next dosage some hours before going to bed.
If you use its liquid form, be careful while measuring the dosage using a special measuring spoon or device. You should avoid using a household spoon. It will not help you to get the right dosage. The dosage depends on your medical condition and your response to this therapy. Body weight is taken into consideration in the case of children. You should not use more than the dosage prescribed by your doctor. If you are using it to treat Parkinson’s disease, your doctor may begin a lower dosage of this drug and then slowly increase it.
It will work best when the amount of this drug in your body is at a constant level. Use it at evenly spaced time intervals all through the day and night.
Things to remember while using this drug
Before you take it,
- your doctor must know if you have drug allergies.
- if you are allergic to any other drug or ingredients present in this drug your doctor must know about it. Get a list of all its ingredients from your pharmacist.
- if you are using antihistamines, drugs for sleep, mental illness, urinary issues or mental illness be alert.
- if you use other drugs for treating Parkinson’s disease your doctor must have an idea about it. He may need to change the dosage of your drug or carefully check for any side effects.
- many drugs may interact with Amantadine. So be careful and inform your doctor about all the drugs you are using.
- if you have kidney disease do not use this drug.
- pregnant or lactating women must tell their doctor before using Amantadine. If you are using this drug and you become pregnant, inform your doctor.
- it may cause drowsiness or blurred vision. So you should not drive or use any machinery or take part in any activities until you are aware of how this drug impacts you.
- you should not take vaccinations without asking your doctor.
- this drug may cause lightheadedness, fainting, and dizziness when you rise too fast from your lying spot. It is very common when you first begin to use it or if you increase your dosage. So slowly rise from your bed and before you stand up, rest your feet on the floor for some time. This will help you to avoid such a problem.
- people who take this drug or other similar ones for treatment of Parkinson’s disease, develop sudden behavioral changes like increased urge for sex, binge eating, etc. If you find it difficult to control any such behavior, tell your doctor.
- if you consume alcohol or have ever used abusive drugs or had depression, mental illness, suicidal thoughts or sleep disorder do not use it.
- people with vision loss, skin disease, heart disease, liver disease, and low blood pressure must tell their doctor.
Is it safe to use Amantadine?
It may cause side effects. If you face any of these side effects that stay for long then contact your doctor:
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Decreased appetite
- Headache
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
There are some serious side effects too:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Urination difficulty
How should you store and dispose of this drug?
Keep it in the container it came in. Close it tightly. Do not let your kids come near it. You need to store it in a proper place and maintain room temperature. There should not be any sunlight, moisture, or heat. But you should not place it in a bathroom. Always remember to lock the safety caps and place them in any safe place to protect your kids from poisoning.
If you do not need any drug to dispose of it properly. Make sure that your kids, pets, or other people do not take them. You should not try to flush it down your toilet. The best way of disposing of it is via a program of medicine take-back. You can discuss this with your local pharmacist or garbage department to learn about these programs in the community.
Frequently asked questions
Q-How should I take it?
You must swallow it as a whole. You should not break or crush it. Even if you chew it, the effectiveness of this drug will be reduced. If you face difficulty swallowing the entire table inform your doctor.
Q-I feel better now. Can I stop using this drug?
You should not stop using Amantadine without asking your doctor. If you feel better and you stop it suddenly, you may face confusion, fever, mental state changes, or huge muscle stiffness. Consult your doctor who will gradually lower the dosage and then stop it.
Q-I forgot to take a dosage. Should I take it now?
You must take your missed dosage if you soon remember about it. But if it is nearly time for your next dosage, then skip it. Keep on taking your regular dosage. You should not make up for your missed dosage by doubling any dose. If you forget to take it for many days, then ask your doctor.
Q-Should I will be careful while using Amantadine?
Discuss with your doctor and get yourself checked to understand how the drug is working. You should not ask someone else to take this drug. If you need to refill the prescription, ask your pharmacist and clear all your doubts. Keep a list of every prescription drug and OTC drug you are using. If you use any minerals, supplements o,r drugs, be aware of them. Whenever you visit your doctor, bring the list.
Always remember that the dosage and frequency of Amantadine or Amantadine HCL will be different for everyone. Stick to your doctor’s instructions or follow the label directions. If your doctor recommended a particular dosage do not change it even if he did not tell you. The amount of Amantadine you use depends on this drug’s strength. The number of dosages you use every day, the time gap between two dosages, and the duration of using it depend on the medical condition for which you are taking it.