Amantadine
This information explains the Parkinson's drug amantadine including how it works, and the benefits and side effects.
Amantadine is the only glutamate antagonist drug that is prescribed to treat Parkinson’s. It is an unbranded form of Parkinson’s medication, which comes in the form of capsules and syrup.
When is amantadine used?
Amantadine isn’t used as much as other Parkinson’s medication, and is usually given with other drug treatments. It is not usually prescribed on its own.
There isn’t much evidence that amantadine can improve tremor and other motor (movement) symptoms of Parkinson’s. But it can be used to treat involuntary movements (dyskinesia) if other Parkinson’s medication has not been effective.
Amantadine is often prescribed when other medication is no longer working as well, but it can be used at all stages of Parkinson’s. It is started at a lower dose and the amount is stepped up gradually.
Benefits of amantadine
National guidelines say there is not enough scientific evidence to support this drug as a first choice in early Parkinson’s.
But for some people, later on, amantadine may reduce involuntary movements (dyskinesia) caused by other Parkinson’s drugs, without making Parkinson’s symptoms worse. It can also have a slight stimulant effect, which may be a benefit if you struggle with feeling tired.
Amantadine can also help to reduce stiffness you may have in your muscles.
Risks and side effects of amantadine
Limited effect on Parkinson’s
Amantadine is not a first choice for the treatment of Parkinson’s and it may have only a mild effect.
Over time, people can become used to this medication and amantadine can work less well.
Impulsive and compulsive behaviours
This medication can cause impulsive and compulsive behaviours.
Impulsive and compulsive behaviours can happen with any Parkinson’s drugs.
Other side effects
People who use amantadine as a treatment for their Parkinson’s find that it improves their symptoms, particularly when other Parkinson’s drugs are causing issues.
For all side effects, see the patient information leaflet that comes with your amantadine medication.
Some of the other possible side effects you may experience with amantadine include:
- feeling nervous or anxious
- blurred vision, fainting, confusion or dizziness. These symptoms may be linked to low blood pressure when changing position (postural hypotension). Also, If you have these side effects, it is not safe to drive or use machinery.
- headaches, poor concentration
- hallucinations, delusions and paranoia
- movement problems
- sleep problems
- fast or irregular heartbeat (this can be linked to swelling in the feet or ankles, known as oedema)
- loss of appetite and weight loss
- dry mouth
- nausea and vomiting
- sweating
- problems with speech
- skin reactions.
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Excessive daytime sleepiness
Some Parkinson’s medications can cause excessive daytime sleepiness or sudden onset of sleep. Amantadine, can cause insomnia, which can cause tiredness the following day. Parkinson’s nurse Lee Kieft explains more.
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