Implementation

• Do not confuse amantadine with rimantidine or ranitidine

• PO: Do not administer last dose of medication near bedtime; may produce insomnia in some patients

» Administering amantadine in divided doses may decrease CNS side effects

» The contents of capsules may be mixed with food or fluids if the patient has difficulty swallowing

• Antiviral Prophylaxis: Treatment should be started in anticipation of contact or as soon as possible after exposure and continue for at least 10 days following exposure. Infectious period is just before onset of symptoms to up to 1 wk after. If vaccine is unavailable or contraindicated, may be administered up to 90 days to protect from repeated exposures

» May be used with inactivated influenza A virus vaccine until protective antibody response develops. Administer for 2–3 wk after vaccine has been given

• Antiviral Treatment: Administer as soon as possible after onset of symptoms and continue for 24–48 hr after symptoms disappear

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