RIMANTADINE - ORAL
(rih-MAN-tuh-deen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S)
Flumadine
USES
This medication is an antiviral used to prevent and treat
infections caused by the flu virus.
HOW TO USE
Take this medication by mouth as directed. Do not
increase your dose or take this more often than prescribed.
For preventing the flu, this is usually taken once or twice a
day. To treat the flu, this is usually given for 5 days.
Take this medication for the full time prescribed. Stopping
therapy too soon may result in ineffective treatment.
SIDE EFFECTS
Nausea, stomach upset, nervousness, tiredness,
lightheadedness, trouble sleeping and difficulty concentrating
may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your
doctor.
Notify your doctor if you develop: skin rash, jaundice
(yellowing of the eyes/skin), mood changes, mental confusion,
vision changes.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your
doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially:
liver or kidney disease, seizures, blood disorders, any
allergies.
Use caution driving or operating machinery if this medication
makes you lightheaded.
Elderly persons may be more sensitive to the effects of this
medication.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during
pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known if this medication is excreted into breast
milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor of all prescription and
nonprescription medication you may use.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison
control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of
overdose may include mental/mood disorder; irregular heartbeat,
trouble breathing, change in amount of urine, unconscious, fever,
or seizures
NOTES
This medication is most effective is reducing the length
and severity of the flu when taken within the first 24 to 48
hours of flu symptoms.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered;
do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead,
skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do
not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F
(15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in
the bathroom.
