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.