What is Symmetrel (Amantadine HCL) used for?

Symmetrel (Amantadine Hydrochloride) is an oral medication prescribed to treat patients suffering from the symptoms of Parkinson`s disease. The medication increases dopamine activity in the brain to prevent symptoms such as rigid movements, stiff muscles, difficulty walking, or other symptoms associated with this condition. This medication also has anti-viral properties that make it useful for preventing pain caused by shingles or to prevent and treat influenza A. Your doctor may prescribe this medication along with others or for the treatment of other unlisted conditions, as well.

How should I use Symmetrel (Amantadine HCL)?

Symmetrel (Amantadine HCL) should be used according to your doctor`s instructions to ensure the safest and most effective results from treatment. The normal dosage is one tablet taken once or twice daily. Your individual directions will be based on your age, weight, health condition, and the severity of your symptoms. These should be swallowed with a large glass of water and may be taken with or without food, although a snack or meal is recommended before use if you get an upset stomach. Do not change the form of the tablets by splitting or crushing them as this may destroy or alter the effects of their contents. Ask your pharmacist or doctor any questions you have about the medicine to ensure the correct usage.

What are the side effects of Symmetrel (Amantadine HCL)?

Symmetrel (Amantadine HCL) may lead to side effects in some patients including:

• Headaches
• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Dry mouth, dry nose, or coughing
• Upset stomach, diarrhoea, or constipation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Anxiety or insomnia
• Loss of coordination

Stop using the medication and contact your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any serious side effects such as fever, flu symptoms, depression, unusual weight gain, urinary retention, difficulty breathing, or seizures. These conditions may require lower doses, reduced administration frequency, or emergency medical attention in serious cases to prevent more health complications from occurring.

Please Note

Symmetrel (Amantadine HCL) should not be administered to patients who are breastfeeding, pregnant, allergic to amantadine, or who have a history of stomach ulcers, seizures, untreated closed angle glaucoma, or who have severe kidney disease. Also inform your doctor if you have a disease affecting the heart and blood vessels, dementia, underlying psychiatric disorders, or liver or kidney disorders. These conditions may cause unexpected health problems requiring alterations to your treatment.

Strictly use Symmetrel (Amantadine HCL) as prescribed and follow all instructions provided by your doctor. Safe, suitable, and optimum dosage can vary and is dependent on the patient`s health and medical history, as well as the condition you are treating.

Symmetrel (Amantadine HCL) may not be safe or suitable for all patients. Always ensure your doctor is informed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, using any other type of medication (including non-prescription medicine, vitamins, and supplements), as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or pre-existing medication conditions.

Seek immediate medical attention or proceed to your nearest accident and emergency department if you suffer a hypersensitive or allergic reaction. Symptoms usually present during a reaction of this nature include difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the limbs or face, tight chest, hives, and skin rashes.