Medical Treatments - Amantadine

Amantadine is a medication that is useful in treating some symptoms of Parkinson's Disease. It may cause greater amounts of Dopamine to be released in the brain. Amantadine can be used by itself to treat people in the early stages of Parkinson's disease. In the early stages of disease, it can help improve slow movements and rigidity.

It may be used in combination with other medications (Sinemet) in later stages of Parkinson's Disease. It can help to reduce dyskinesias " involuntary movements that may result from taking some Parkinson's medications.

Amantadine is available in 100 mg capsules and tablets. It is usually given 2 to 4 times daily.

Things to know:

1. Side effects are rare. In a few cases, patients may note difficulty falling asleep, agitation, difficulty concentrating, dry mouth, swelling of the legs, hands or feet, blurred vision, dizziness, skin mottling (changes in color). Let us or your neurologist know if these are severe or do not go away.

2. Amantadine may cause an upset stomach. Taking it with food or milk will help.

  • Taking your last dose several hours before bedtime can help prevent insomnia.
  • Rarely, patients experience confusion or hallucinations. This is seen more in the elderly population.
  • Let your doctor and pharmacist know what other medications you take: especially Cogentin (benztropine), Artane (trihexyphenidyl), Maxzide or Dyazide (hydrochlorothiazide with triamterene). These medications can interact with Amantadine.

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