Amantadine
| Drug monograph · NCLEX study reference | |
| Therapeutic class | Antiparkinson, antiviral, antidyskinetic |
|---|---|
| Pharmacologic class | NMDA antagonist and dopamine releaser |
| Onset / peak / duration | Effect over days. |
| Half-life / level | Half-life 10 to 25 hours; level not routine. |
| Routes | PO (oral) |
| High-alert (ISMP) | No |
| Black box warning | None |
| Antidote / reversal | None. |
| Pregnancy / lactation | Use only if essential. |
Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.
Amantadine — Antiparkinson, antiviral, antidyskinetic; NMDA antagonist and dopamine releaser.
Identification
- Therapeutic class: Antiparkinson, antiviral, antidyskinetic.
- Pharmacologic class: NMDA antagonist and dopamine releaser.
Pharmacology
- Mechanism of action: Increases dopamine release and blocks NMDA; reduces dyskinesia and rigidity.
- Onset / peak / duration: Effect over days.
- Half-life / therapeutic level: Half-life 10 to 25 hours; level not routine.
Clinical use
- Indications: Parkinson disease, drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms, levodopa dyskinesia.
- Usual dose, route, frequency: PO daily or divided.
- Maximum dose / adjustments: Reduce in renal impairment.
Safety
- Contraindications: Severe renal impairment caution.
- Black box warning: None.
- Interactions: Anticholinergics (additive), CNS stimulants, alcohol.
- Pregnancy / lactation: Use only if essential.
- High-alert: No.
Adverse effects
- Common side effects: Livedo reticularis (skin mottling), dizziness, insomnia, ankle edema.
- Serious effects to report: Confusion and hallucinations (especially elderly), suicidal thoughts.
- Antidote / reversal: None.
Nursing process
- Assessment before administration: Renal function, mental status.
- Interventions during therapy: Avoid bedtime dosing; monitor cognition.
- Monitor: Motor function, mental status, renal function.
- Evaluation / expected outcome: Reduced rigidity and dyskinesia.
Patient teaching
- Patient teaching: Mottled skin is usually harmless; report confusion.
- Notify provider if: Confusion, hallucinations, mood changes.
- Administration tips: Earlier in the day.