What it means
It helps release dopamine in the brain and blocks glutamate, which eases the stiffness and tremor of Parkinson diseasePAR-kin-sun dih-ZEEZA slowly worsening brain disease in which the nerve cells that help control movement die off.Full entry and the extra movements (dyskinesia) that levodopa can cause. It is also used for movement side effects of antipsychotic drugs. It is no longer recommended for influenza because the viruses have become resistant. Side effects include dizziness on standing, confusion, hallucinations, sleep problems, dry mouth and a lacy, purple skin mottling on the legs. Its name can be confused with amiodaroneam-ee-OH-duh-roneA drug used to treat and prevent serious abnormal heart rhythms.Full entry .
For the nurse
Help the client stand up slowly, and watch older adults for confusion and hallucinations. The dose is lowered when the kidneys work poorly. Teach the client not to stop it suddenly, since that can make symptoms flare.
At a glance
| Drug class | antiparkinson agent; antiviral |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Gocovri, Osmolex ER |
| Spanish | amantadina |
| Also written | Gocovri, Osmolex ER, Symmetrel |
Easy to confuse with
amiodarone
A drug used to treat and prevent serious abnormal heart rhythms.
Related terms
Parkinson disease
A slowly worsening brain disease in which the nerve cells that help control movement die off.
levodopa
The main drug for Parkinson disease, which the brain turns into dopamine.