How Does Amantadine work?
Amantadine works by inhibiting the ability of the virus to unfold a critical protein so it can’t replicate. Resistance to amantadine is increasingly common; it works by inhibiting the operation of a single protein, and it requires only a single nucleotide mutation to confer resistance in the majority of influenza strains which circulate among humans. Consequently, amantadine resistance arises relatively easily from previously non-resistant strains.
When should I take Amantadine?
Amantadine is most effective if taken within 24 hours of the first onset of the flu symptoms it is also effective if used prophylactically – taken as a precaution after a possible exposure to flu, but before any symptoms appear.
What are the side effects of Amantadine?
Common side affect of Amantadine are:
- Appetite loss
- blurred vision
- constipation
- diarrhoea
- dizziness
- drowsiness
- dry mouth & nose
- headache
- light-headedness
- nausea
- strange dreams
- tiredness
- trouble sleeping