Symmetrel and Equivalent

Symmetrel Information:

Symmetrel (amantadine) is a medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease as well as certain influenza infections (type A). In the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, Symmetrel acts as antidyskinetic and targets dopamine neurons, as well as blocking the NMDA receptor, in order to reduce symptoms such as dyskinesia and stiffness. For the treatment and prevention of the influenza virus, Symmetrel works as an antiviral medication that prevents the release of infectious viral nucleic acid into the healthy cell by interfering with the M2 proteins. Before using Symmetrel, tell your doctor if you have any medical problems, specifically congestive heart failure, epilepsy or seizures, low blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, peripheral edema, psychosis, sleeping disorders, or glaucoma. As well, tell your doctor about any medications you are currently taking to reduce the risk of interactions. Avoid tobacco or alcohol to lower the risk of complications. It is unknown whether this medication will pass through breastmilk, or whether it will affect an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding while using this medication. Take this medication as directed. Do not stop taking Symmetrel without your doctor’s instructions. Your symptoms may lessen, but you may still need to use the medication.

Common side effects of Symmetrel may include agitation, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, headache, irritability, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, nervousness, and trouble with sleeping. Talk to your doctor about ways to manage these symptoms if they persist. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience bladder pain, bloody or cloudy urine, difficult, burning, or painful urination, frequent urge to urinate, blurred vision, severe dizziness, lower back or side pain, visual or auditory hallucinations, or swelling of the hands, feet, or lower legs.

Symmetrel Availability