About Amantadine

Amantadine is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD; a disorder of the nervous system that causes difficulties with movement, muscle control, and balance) and other similar conditions.

Amantadine is also used to control movement problems that are a side effect of certain medications used to treat Parkinson’s disease. It also is used to prevent symptoms of influenza A virus infection and for treatment of respiratory infections caused by influenza A virus.

Amantadine is in a class of medications called adamantanes. It is thought to work to control movement problems by increasing the amount of dopamine in certain parts of the body. It works against influenza A virus by stopping the spread of the virus in the body.

Amantadine comes as a capsule, extended-release capsule (Gocovri), tablet, and liquid to take by mouth.

The capsules, tablets, and liquid medications are usually taken once or twice a day. The extended-release capsules are taken once a day at bedtime.