Description

Symmetrel 100mg

Symmetrel 100mg is a medicine that contains amantadine hydrochloride. It is one of a class of drugs called adamantanes. Doctors may prescribe amantadine for certain movement disorders, such as Parkinsonism, and for certain movement problems that are caused by medications. Amantadine has also been used against influenza A, but CDC’s current guidance states that amantadine is not recommended for routine treatment or prevention of seasonal influenza A because widespread resistance remains among circulating viruses.

What Is Symmetrel 100mg Used For

Amantadine (Symmetrel) is an antiviral medication used for Parkinson’s disease. Each tablet contains 100 mg amantadine hydrochloride. The drug acts upon the nervous system and may affect dopamine activity in some areas of the brain. It may therefore help to improve some movement symptoms in Parkinsonism or related conditions.

Amantadine has different effects depending on why it is prescribed, so patients should use it only as directed by their health care professional. The correct dose also depends on age, medical conditions and kidney function.

What does Symmetrel 100mg do?

An important use of amantadine is in the treatment of symptoms of Parkinsonism. It may help with movement problems and sometimes is used with other medicines for Parkinson’s disease. The official prescribing information also includes its use for drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions, which are movement problems that can be caused by some medications.

In the past, amantadine was also used for influenza A. However, this use today needs special attention. CDC does not recommend the use of adamantanes (amantadine, rimantadine) for the prevention or treatment of influenza in the United States because of resistance among circulating seasonal influenza A viruses .

How does Symmetrel 100mg act?

Amantadine works in the brain and nervous system. Partly by increasing dopamine activity in certain parts of the body it is thought to control movement in Parkinsonism. So it might help with some of the issues of movement or muscle control or related symptoms.

The exact answer varies from person to person. Patients may experience changes after starting treatment, so regular medical follow-up is important.

Symmetrel 100mg Dose

The dose depends on the condition being treated.” The official labelling for adults with Parkinsonism states that if amantadine is used alone the usual dose is 100mg twice daily. Some doctors may start with 100mg once a day and then adjust the dose for some patients.

However kidney function is particularly important with amantadine as the dose may need to be substantially reduced if kidney function is impaired. Older adults may also need lower doses. Patients should never increase, decrease or change the dosing schedule without professional medical advice.

Side effects Common

As with all medicines, Symmetrel 100mg can cause side effects. Amantadine may cause nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, difficulty sleeping, dry mouth, constipation, and nervous system effects. Some people also have confusion and other mental changes.

Also in some people serious reactions can happen. Seek medical help right away if you have confusion, unusual behaviour, hallucinations, fainting, swelling, breathing problems, or other serious side effects.

Important Safety Information

If you have kidney problems, tell your doctor before you take amantadine, because the medicine may build up if your kidney function is reduced. The prescribing information contains reduced dosing schedules for varying degrees of renal impairment.

Also, do not suddenly stop taking amantadine without first talking to your healthcare professional. MedlinePlus warns that some patients experience fever, confusion, mental changes or severe muscle stiffness with abrupt withdrawal.

For these reasons, keep your doctor informed about all medications and supplements you take. This information lowers the risk of unwanted interactions and dosing problems.

Symmetrel 100mg – Frequently Asked Questions

What is Symmetrel 100mg?

Symmetrel 100mg is amantadine hydrochloride. It may be given to treat Parkinsonism and some drug-induced movement disorders.

Is Symmetrel 100 mg an antibiotic?

“No. Symmetrel is not an antibiotic, it contains amantadine.

Symmetrel 100mg flu?

Amantadine is active against influenza A . CDC does not recommend adamantanes for routine seasonal influenza because of widespread resistance .

Can I stop Symmetrel all of a sudden?

Some patients can develop serious symptoms if they stop taking amantadine abruptly. Please consult with your healthcare professional before beginning or ending use.

Conclusion.

Symmetrel 100mg is a medication that contains amantadine and is used mainly to treat certain Parkinsonism and movement disorders. The right dose, however, depends on the individual’s underlying condition and kidney function. Amantadine can cause serious side effects and needs to be dosed carefully in people with reduced kidney function, so you should seek professional guidance. Furthermore, while it does have some historical activity against influenza A, CDC guidance does not recommend amantadine for routine treatment or prevention of seasonal influenza due to widespread resistance.