Amantrel (Amantadine) is used to prevent and treat respiratory infection caused by influenza A virus. It is also used in treating abnormalities of movements such as uncontrolled shaking, slow movements, muscle stiffness associated with Parkinson’s disease or drug-induced and in the treatment of severe and painful shingles (painful rashes usually in the form of a strip of blisters caused by herpes zoster virus).
Amantadine belongs to the family of medications called antivirals. It works as an antiviral drug by blocking the reproduction of viruses (viral replication) in the body. It also blocks the activity of proteins called ‘NMDA glutamate receptors’ in the brain, thereby inhibiting the generation of abnormal movements of Parkinson’s disease.
Amantadine is an antiviral drug that inhibits the actions of viruses in the body. It is used primarily in the treatment and prevention of Influenza A which is a viral infection. However, Amantadine is not recommended in some flu seasons as some flu strains may be resistant to this drug. This medicine is also prescribed in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and ‘Parkinson like’ symptoms like stiffness and shaking that may be induced by the use of certain drugs. Amantadine HCl is sold under various trade names. This medicine may also be prescribed for conditions not listed here.
USES
- Improves the condition of a patient diagnosed with Parkinson’s syndrome, Parkinson’s disease.
- Causes increased interest to the surrounding in Parkinson’s patients.
- Causes psychic brightening in Parkinson’s patients.
- Prevents influenza A.
- Improves the condition of a patient with neuralgia in Herpes Zoster caused by the virus Varicella Zoster.
DESCRIPTION
The active substance of is Amantadine. The exact mode of action of Amantadine is not fully clear. Blocking glutamate NMDA receptors, the drug removes the stimulatory effect of cortical glutamate neurons in the neostriatum, which is observed when the patient doesn’t have sufficient dopamine. PK-Merz prevents the activity of NMDA-receptors in the neurons of the substantia nigra and doesn’t let destroy these neurons. The medical preparation also doesn’t let influenza A virus enter the cell, thus protecting the person from illness. After the medication is taken, it is entirely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The maximum amount of the drug can be found in 5 hours after the intake. The excretion occurs mainly with urine.
PACKAGE & DOSAGE
The medication is taken orally in a single dose of 100-200 mg depending on the condition of the patient and the patient’s response to the treatment. The dose shouldn’t exceed 600 mg a day. The dosage should be adjusted by the doctor.
When the patient takes 200 mg a day, it’s possible to achieve a steady state after 4-7 days of therapy.
It is not allowed to take alcohol during therapy. There are other substances as well that should not be taken during the treatment. The patients with epilepsy, prostate hypertrophy, narrow angle glaucoma, and allergic reaction to some of the components of the medication should not take the drug. Consult the doctor to avoid the side effects and negative consequences of the medication.
STORAGE
It is recommended to store the medicine in a dark place at a temperature not exceeding 25°C.
