Rimantadine (ريمانتادين)

Introduction

Rimantadine is an antiviral medication used to treat, prevent, and control the infection and symptoms of influenza A virus. It belongs to the class of medications called antivirals. Rimantadine may help to reduce the chances of getting influenza A, or reduce the severity of symptoms if you already have it.

Indication

Rimantadine is indicated for the treatment and prevention of influenza A virus infection. It may also be used to reduce the severity of symptoms and complications in people who are already infected with influenza.

Mechanism of Action

Rimantadine works by blocking the M2 protein channel of influenza A virus cells. This prevents the virus from replicating, preventing it from spreading further. It also reduces the severity of symptoms in people who already have influenza virus infection.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

The effectiveness of rimantadine can be seen within 2 to 4 days of starting the medication. However, it is important to continue taking rimantadine for the entire course of treatment to ensure full recovery.

Absorption

Rimantadine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract with peak concentrations reached within 1.5 to 4.5 hours. It is also 97% bound to plasma proteins.

Route of Elimination

Rimantadine is eliminated mainly through the kidney by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion.

Dosage

Rimantadine is typically taken orally in tablet or syrup form. The usual adult dose is 10-15 mg twice a day, 30 minutes before meals. The usual dose for children between the ages of 4 and 14 is 10 mg twice a day 30 minutes before meals. The dosage for prophylaxis and treatment of influenza A virus is similar.

Administration

Rimantadine should be taken orally 30 minutes before meals. It can also be taken on an empty stomach, but this should only be done if it is not possible to take it before meals. It is important to take rimantadine on a regular basis and to follow the instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of rimantadine are headache, nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. Other less common side effects include insomnia, dry mouth, dry skin, mild itching, loss of appetite, and blurred vision. Rarely, more serious side effects may occur, including rash, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or chest pain.

Toxicity

Rimantadine is generally safe if taken as directed. However, an overdose of rimantadine can cause serious side effects, such as seizures, dizziness, abdominal pain, and confusion. An overdose of rimantadine should be treated as a medical emergency and immediate medical attention should be sought.

Precaution

Rimantadine should only be taken as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not take more or less than instructed. Do not take it for longer than prescribed. Do not take more than the recommended dose. It is important to tell your doctor if you have any liver or renal impairment, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interaction

Rimantadine may interact with some other medications, including antacids, antidepressants, or other antivirals. It is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements, to reduce the chances of interactions.

Disease Interaction

Rimantadine should not be used in people with certain medical conditions, such as kidney or liver disease, or people taking certain medications, such as anticonvulsants. It should also not be used in people with a history of depression or who are pregnant. Tell your doctor about any pre-existing conditions you have before taking rimantadine.

Drug Interaction

Rimantadine may interact with other medications, including antacids, antidepressants, or other antivirals. It is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements, to reduce the chances of interactions.

Food Interactions

Dietary restrictions should not apply while taking rimantadine. It is important to follow the instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist.

Pregnancy Use

Rimantadine should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. If you are pregnant, it is important to tell your doctor before taking rimantadine.

Lactation Use

It is unknown whether rimantadine is excreted in breast milk. Therefore, nursing mothers should avoid taking rimantadine while breastfeeding. It is advisable to consult your doctor or healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

Symptoms of an acute overdose may include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, and seizures. An overdose of rimantadine should be treated as a medical emergency and immediate medical attention should be sought.

Contraindication

Rimantadine should not be used in people with known hypersensitivity to the drug, liver or kidney disease, or those taking certain medications, such as anticonvulsants. It should also not be used in people with a history of depression or who are pregnant.

Use Direction

Rimantadine should be taken orally 30 minutes before meals. It can also be taken on an empty stomach, but this should only be done if it is not possible to take it before meals. It is important to take rimantadine on a regular basis and to follow the instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist.

Storage Condition

Rimantadine should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It should be kept away from children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of rimantadine is 1.2 to 1.8 L/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of rimantadine is 4-6 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of rimantadine is approximately 116-158 mL/min.

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