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Amantadine Hydrochloride: Chemical Structure, Mechanism of Action, Uses & Side Effects

Chemical Formula:

  • C10H17N•HCl

Structure of Amantadine Hydrochloride
Structure of Amantadine Hydrochloride

Mechanism of Action:

  • Amantadine is an antiviral agent and an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist.

  • Its antiviral mechanism of action is primarily against the influenza A virus.

  • Amantadine inhibits the viral M2 ion channel, which is necessary for the virus's uncoating process within the host cell.

  • By blocking this channel, amantadine prevents the release of viral RNA and halts the viral replication process.

Uses:

  • Amantadine is used to treat and prevent infections caused by the influenza A virus.

  • It is also used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms.

Side Effects:

  • Some common side effects of amantadine hydrochloride include:

  • Nausea

  • Dizziness

  • Insomnia

  • Headache

  • Dry mouth

  • Constipation

  • Serious side effects may include:

  • Hallucinations

  • Seizures

  • Orthostatic hypotension

  • Congestive heart failure

  • Peripheral edema



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