Rimantadine

Rimantadine is a cyclic primary amine with antiviral and antiparkinsonian activity. It is effective only against influenza A viruses and has no activity against influenza B or other upper respiratory tract viruses. Approved for the treatment and prevention of influenza A, it is no longer recommended due to high rates of resistance and the availability of more effective influenza antiviral drugs. Amantadine is available in generic form as 100 mg tablets and as a syrup (50 mg/5 mL) under the trade name Flumadine.The recommended dose for influenza in adults is 100 mg twice a day for 5-7 days; amantadine can also be used for prophylaxis, starting as soon as possible after close contact.

Rimantadine is an antiviral prescription medicine. It may be used to prevent or treat certain influenza (flu) infections (type A) in adults (17 years of age and older). It is also used to prevent influenza (flu) infections (type A) in children (ages 1 to 16). It can be used alone or with the flu vaccine. However, it is not for colds, other types of flu or other viral infections.

The antiviral activity of Rimantadine is attributed to the release of viral particles from the capsid and viral RNA during the initial stages of viral replication.

Rimantadine side effects may include anxiety, dizziness, ataxia, confusion, fatigue, headache, insomnia, dry mouth and gastrointestinal upset. Overdose may cause anxiety, chest pain or discomfort, dizziness, fainting, abnormal heartbeat, hyperventilation, arrhythmia, and difficulty sleeping.