Flumadine (Rimantadine)
General description
Rimantadine has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for
the prophylaxis and treatment of illness caused by influenza A virus.
Flumadine, produced by Forest Pharmaceuticals, is the brand name synthetic
that comes in both tablet and syrup form.
Mechanism
While the mechanism of rimantadine is not completely understood, it
is thought to prevent viral uncoating and thus viral multiplication.
Rimantadine acts against the human antigenic subtypes H1N1, H2N2, and
H3N2, but has little or no activity against the influenza B virus. It
should be adminstered within 48 hours of onset of influenza-like illness.
Rimantadine reduces systemic symptoms and the duration of fever associated
with influenza A.
Indications
Flumadine is indicated for prophylaxis and treatment of infections
caused by various strains of influenza A virus.
Usage/Dosage
Rimantadine is available in 100 mg tablets and 50 mg/5 mL syrup
form. Rimantadine should be administered within 48 hours of
onset of symptoms. For adults and children over the age of 10,
100 mg twice daily is recommended. Children under the age of 10
should take 5 mg/kg/day (not to exceed 150 mg). Patients with
renal impairment should be monitored and the dosage reduced as
needed.
Precautions
Flumadine has been linked to increased incidence of seizure
in patients with histories of epilepsy. In populations at high
risk for influenza infection, transfer of rimantadine resistant
strains should be considered. Flumadine interacts with cimetidine,
acetaminophen, and aspirin in a manner that reduces efficy of
treatment.
Contraindications
Flumadine is contraindicated for patients with known
hypersensitivity to drugs of the amantadine class, including
rimantadine and amantadine.
Potential Adverse Effects
For patients with normal renal and hepatic function,
Flumadine produced a low frequency of adverse effects.