Amantadine

Also indexed as: Symadine®, Symmetrel®

Amantadine is used to treat influenza, Parkinson’s disease, side effects caused by certain drugs, and tiredness associated with multiple sclerosis. It may be classified either as an antiviral or an antiparkinson drug.

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
(for details about the summarized interactions, read the full article)

Depletion or interference

None known

Side effect reduction/prevention

None known

Supportive interaction

None known

Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability

None known

Adverse interaction

None known

An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds

Alcohol
Drinking alcoholic beverages while taking amantadine may enhance side effects of the drug, such as dizziness, confusion, and light-headedness.1 Therefore, combining alcohol and amantadine should be avoided.

References

1. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 1040–2.