TheraRadar
Data updated: Mar 29, 2026

AMANTADINE HYDROCHLORIDE

AMANTADINE HYDROCHLORIDE
Immunology Approved 1987-01-07

Amantadine hydrochloride is indicated for the prophylaxis and treatment of signs and symptoms of infection caused by various strains of influenza A virus. It is also indicated for the treatment of parkinsonism and drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions. As a chemoprophylactic supplement to annual vaccination, it is used to provide protection during the two- to four-week window required to develop an antibody response. It is not a substitute for annual vaccination and is not effective against influenza B or other respiratory viral infections.

Source: FDA Label • HERITAGE PHARMA

How AMANTADINE HYDROCHLORIDE Works

The mechanism of action of amantadine hydrochloride involves two distinct pathways: 1. **Antiviral Activity:** Amantadine inhibits the viral M2 protein ion channel of the influenza A virus. This prevents the acidification of the viral interior, which is a necessary step for viral uncoating and the subsequent release of viral RNA into the host cell. 2. **Antiparkinsonian Activity:** The exact mechanism is not fully established but is believed to involve weak, non-competitive NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor antagonism. This action reduces the overstimulation of glutamatergic neurons. Additionally, amantadine has been shown to facilitate the release of dopamine from presynaptic terminals and may inhibit dopamine reuptake.

Source: FDA Label
35
Indications
--
Phase 3 Trials
39
Years on Market

AMANTADINE HYDROCHLORIDE Approval History

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What AMANTADINE HYDROCHLORIDE Treats

2 indications

AMANTADINE HYDROCHLORIDE is approved for 2 conditions since its original approval in 1987. These indications span multiple therapeutic areas including oncology, immunology, and more.

  • Influenza A
  • Parkinsonism
Source: FDA Label
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Understanding FDA Approval Types
Count Type What it means
- ORIG Original approval - drug first enters market
- SUPPL - Efficacy New indication (new disease/condition approved)
- SUPPL - Labeling Label text changes (warnings, dosing updates)
- SUPPL - Manufacturing Production changes (new facility)
- SUPPL - Chemistry Formulation changes (new dosage strength)

Green lines in the timeline show ORIG and Efficacy approvals - the clinically meaningful milestones.

AMANTADINE HYDROCHLORIDE FDA Label Details

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Indications & Usage

Amantadine hydrochloride capsules, USP are indicated for the prophylaxis and treatment of signs and symptoms of infection caused by various strains of influenza A virus. Amantadine hydrochloride capsules, USP are also indicated in the treatment of parkinsonism and drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions. Influenza A Prophylaxis Amantadine hydrochloride capsules, USP are indicated for chemoprophylaxis against signs and symptoms of influenza A virus infection. Because amantadine does not completely prevent the host immune response to influenza A infection, individuals who take this drug may still ...

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Data Sources

Data sourced from official FDA and NIH databases. Click links to verify on original sources.