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Amantidine Side Effects

Amantadine is a prescription medicine used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, as well as for various respiratory-tract infections that are caused by viruses. It also is used for the management of side effects that come about from psychiatric medications. As with any medicine, there are some side effects that can occur due to taking Amantadine.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • There are several common side effects that happen to people who take Amantadine. These side effects are generally no cause for alarm, due to the fact that they usually go away on their own as the body adapts to the medicine. However, if the side effects get worse, or if they do not go away, it might be necessary to consult a doctor. These side effects are nausea, bizarre dreams, dizziness, feeling lightheaded, drowsiness, headache, blurry vision, loss of appetite, constipation, dry nose or mouth, diarrhea, fatigue and difficulty sleeping.

    Serious Side Effects

    • Serious side effects are also possible with Amantadine use. In cases of serious side effects, it is crucial to seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible. Some of these potentially dangerous side effects are extreme or lingering drowsiness, swelling of the ankles, legs, hands and feet, mood or mental changes, paranoia, uncontrolled motions, spasms, changes in personality, sore throat, shortness of breath, seizures, suicidal thoughts, problems with urination, abnormal irritability or anxiety, changes in vision, agitation, aggression, passing out, irregular or rapid heartbeat, depression, disorientation, confusion, loss of memory, and hallucinations.

    Allergic Reactions

    • Allergic reactions are also considered to be serious side effects of Amantadine use. In situations of allergic reaction, it is important to get immediate medical help. Some signs of allergic reaction to Amantadine are swelling of the tongue, lips, mouth and face, chest tightness, itchiness, skin rash, difficulty breathing, and breaking out into hives.

    Caution

    • It is vital to exercise caution when considering whether to take Amantadine. Your doctor must be notified of any and all medical conditions and allergies that you might have, particularly regarding heart issues (such as congestive heart failure), peripheral edema (the legs and the arms swelling), seizures, and mood/mental disorders (such as psychosis).

    Overdose

    • If a person suspects he might have overdosed on Amantadine, he must seek emergency medical help as soon as possible. Some symptoms of Amantadine overdose are nausea, throwing up, blurry vision, slurred communication, feelings of depression, loss of memory, more sun sensitivity than usual, consciousness loss, and excitability.

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