Symmetrel (Amantadine Hydrochloride) Drug Information: Medication Guide and Patient Information

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May 27, 2012

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Influenza, commonly called "the flu," is caused by viruses that infect the respiratory tract.
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In April 2009, a new flu virus termed novel H1N1 swine flu developed in Mexico, rapidly spread worldwide, and caused the WHO to de...

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PATIENT INFORMATION

Patients should be advised of the following information:

Blurry vision and/or impaired mental acuity may occur.

Gradually increase physical activity as the symptoms of Parkinson's disease improve.

Avoid excessive alcohol usage, since it may increase the potential for CNS effects such as dizziness, confusion, lightheadedness and orthostatic hypotension.

Avoid getting up suddenly from a sitting or lying position. If dizziness or lightheadedness occurs, notify physician.

Notify physician if mood/mental changes, swelling of extremities, difficulty urinating and/or shortness of breath occur.

Do not take more medication than prescribed because of the risk of overdose. If there is no improvement in a few days, or if medication appears less effective after a few weeks, discuss with a physician.

Consult physician before discontinuing medication.

Seek medical attention immediately if it is suspected that an overdose of medication has been taken.

There have been reports of patients experiencing intense urges to gamble, increased sexual urges, and other intense urges, and the inability to control these urges while taking one or more of the medications that increase central dopaminergic tone and that are generally used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, including SYMMETREL (amantadine hydrochloride) . Although it is not proven that the medications caused these events, these urges were reported to have stopped in some cases when the dose was reduced or the medication was stopped. Prescribers should ask patients about the development of new or increased gambling urges, sexual urges or other urges while being treated with SYMMETREL (amantadine hydrochloride) . Patients should inform their physician if they experience new or increased gambling urges, increased sexual urges or other intense urges while taking SYMMETREL (amantadine hydrochloride) . Physicians should consider dose reduction or stopping the medication if a patient develops such urges while taking SYMMETREL (amantadine hydrochloride) .

Last reviewed on RxList: 3/11/2009
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.