Amantadine MS therapy is another case of what often happens with Pharmaceuticals; sometimes a drug is formulated for one condition and what was an unwanted side effect turns into a benefit.  And Amantadine, Multiple Sclerosis sufferers have discovered such a surprise.  While researching Amantadine, MS was not the original target.  It was originally approved for use as an antiviral drug to treat or at least prevent some influenza infections.  Sometimes it is also used in concurrence with other drugs as part of drug regimen for treating Parkinson’s disease as well.  But for reasons still unknown, it has been reported that with Amantadine, MS fatigue related symptoms have been reduced.  The fact that the Amantadine MS relationship is not yet understood does not make it any less effective.  The usual dose for Amantadine MS fatigue management is 100 to 200 mg per day. If nighttime sleep routines are disrupted, the dose should be taken in the morning.

 

Fatigue is one of the most common and disruptive symptoms. Amantadine Multiple Sclerosis treatment helpful

 

MS patients probably struggle with fatigue more than any other symptom. Family activities diminish, lethargy sets in, and being fatigued constantly often leads to depression.  Naps in the middle of the day become a requirement, often conflicting with other plans.  But additional relief may come for those suffering with MS: Amantadine usually eliminates the afternoon nap requirement.  And controlling fatigue usually helps with other symptoms too.  But since MS presents so differently in every individual, some MS patients say there is no difference at all in fatigue levels.  But as is so often the case, while some claim that fatigue is significantly reduced with Amantadine, MS patients in large numbers report no difference at all.  To make things more confusing, some report Provigil works better for their MS.  The results are mostly anecdotal and certainly documented poorly.  So before concluding that Amantadine MS treatment is the answer for you, discuss the option with your Doctor to determine if the side effects are worth any benefits you may receive.  There are many other ways to reduce fatigue, including changes in your diet, and you may have to try many before you find one that works for you.

 

Precautions while using Amantadine to treat your Multiple Sclerosis fatigue

 

  • Don’t drink alcohol
  • Dryness of the mouth may cause dental problems
  • Vision may become blurred – caution while driving or during any activity where vision is crucial
  • Amantadine Multiple Sclerosis therapy passes the drug into breast milk.  Although the effect of the drug on newborns is not established, precautions would be prudent and breastfeeding would probably not be a good idea

 

Some side effects are the same as MS symptoms, so be sure to discuss them all with your doctor