Generic Symmetrel, tablets

Chemical Name: AMANTADINE

Common uses

This medicine is used to prevent or treat the flu. It may also be used to treat symptoms of parkinson's disease, to reverse a certain type of side effect called an extrapyramidal reaction, or for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using

Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions including mental or mood problems, kidney disease, seizures, congestive heart failure, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Use of this medicine is not recommended if you have uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Store this medicine at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Do not take this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. Do not exceed the recommended dose of this medicine. Doing so will not improve your condition faster and may increase your risk for serious side effects. If you are taking this medicine for parkinson's disease, do not stop taking this medicine without first checking with your doctor. Your dose may need to be decreased slowly to avoid side effects. This medicine may cause dizziness or blurred vision. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine. If dizziness occurs, sit up or stand up slowly. Do not become overheated in hot weather or during exercise or other activities since heatstroke may occur.

Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. Caution is advised when using this medicine in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine.

For women: if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. This medicine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include nausea, blurred vision, dizziness or lightheadedness, difficulty sleeping, decreased appetite, anxiety, confusion, dry mouth, headache, or constipation. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience fainting, difficulty urinating, mental or mood changes, or swelling of legs, feet, or ankles. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained fever, muscle stiffness, severe confusion, uncontrollable movements, or rapid heartbeat. An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, slurred speech, blurred vision, drowsiness, memory loss, depression, excessive excitability, increased sensitivity to the sun, fast or irregular heartbeat, and loss of consciousness.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.