Main Research Findings

Rimantadine is an antiviral drug that has been found to be effective in preventing and treating influenza A virus infections. 15 , 23 , 9 Rimantadine has been shown to be more effective than amantadine in preventing influenza A virus infections. 15 , 23 , 9 Research suggests that rimantadine may be safer than amantadine, especially for older individuals. 2 , 6 , 20 However, rimantadine can also have side effects. 22 , 7

Reasons for Side Effects

The side effects of rimantadine are believed to be caused by its actions on the central nervous system. Like amantadine, rimantadine interacts with dopamine neurons in the central nervous system, stimulating their activity. 4 This stimulation of dopamine neurons is thought to contribute to some of the side effects of rimantadine.

Common Side Effects

Dizziness

Dizziness is a side effect that can occur with rimantadine. 1 Dizziness is thought to be caused by rimantadine’s actions on the central nervous system.

Nausea

Nausea or vomiting can occur with rimantadine. 2 Nausea is thought to be caused by the drug’s actions on the digestive system.

Drowsiness

Drowsiness or fatigue can occur with rimantadine. 1 Drowsiness is thought to be caused by rimantadine’s actions on the central nervous system.

Anxiety

Anxiety and feelings of tension are possible side effects of rimantadine. 2 Anxiety is thought to be caused by the drug’s actions on the central nervous system.

Insomnia

Insomnia or sleep problems can occur with rimantadine. 6 Insomnia is thought to be caused by rimantadine’s actions on the central nervous system.

Confusion

Confusion or hallucinations are possible side effects of rimantadine. 1 Confusion is thought to be caused by the drug’s actions on the central nervous system.

Constipation

Constipation is a possible side effect of rimantadine. 6 Constipation is thought to be caused by the drug’s actions on the digestive system.

Rash

Rash is a possible side effect of rimantadine. Rash is thought to be caused by the drug’s actions on the skin.

Indigestion

Indigestion is a possible side effect of rimantadine. 6 Indigestion is thought to be caused by the drug’s actions on the digestive system.

Side Effect Management

Dizziness

If you experience dizziness, talk to your doctor about reducing your dosage of rimantadine or changing the time of day you take it. 1 If you feel dizzy, rest and avoid strenuous activity.

Nausea

If you experience nausea or vomiting, talk to your doctor about changing the time of day you take rimantadine to a time when your stomach is less likely to be upset, such as after a meal. 2 Anti-nausea medications may also be helpful.

Drowsiness

If you experience drowsiness, talk to your doctor about changing the time of day you take rimantadine to before bed. 1 Avoid driving or operating machinery that requires your full attention while you are taking rimantadine.

Anxiety

If you experience anxiety, talk to your doctor about reducing your dosage of rimantadine or changing the time of day you take it. 2 Medications may also be helpful to alleviate anxiety symptoms.

Insomnia

If you experience insomnia, talk to your doctor about changing the time of day you take rimantadine to before bed. 6 Try to improve your sleep environment and engage in relaxing activities before bedtime.

Confusion

If you experience confusion or hallucinations, contact your doctor immediately. 1 These symptoms may indicate that rimantadine is having a strong effect on your central nervous system.

Constipation

If you experience constipation, try eating a diet high in fiber and drinking plenty of fluids. 6 Laxatives may also be helpful.

Rash

If you experience a rash, contact your doctor immediately. This may be a sign of a more serious reaction to rimantadine.

Indigestion

If you experience indigestion, try eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoid foods that upset your stomach. 6 Antacids may also be helpful.

Comparison of Research Studies

Commonalities

Most studies have found that rimantadine is effective for preventing and treating influenza A virus infections. 15 , 23 , 9 Many studies have reported that rimantadine has fewer side effects than amantadine. 2 , 6 , 20 However, there is still a possibility of side effects with rimantadine. 22 , 7

Differences

There are variations in the frequency and type of side effects reported in different studies. For example, dizziness has been reported in some studies, but not in others. 1 These differences are likely due to factors such as the age and health status of the research participants, the dosage of rimantadine used, and other variables.

Practical Applications and Considerations

Rimantadine is a useful drug for preventing and treating influenza A virus infections, but it is important to be aware of the risks of side effects. 15 , 23 , 9 Follow your doctor’s instructions and take rimantadine as prescribed. If you experience any changes in your health while taking rimantadine, contact your doctor immediately.

Current Research Limitations

There is still much that we don’t know about the side effects of rimantadine. For example, we need to learn more about how these side effects occur and who is most likely to experience them. Further research is needed to address these knowledge gaps.

Future Research Directions

More research is needed to better understand the side effects of rimantadine. This research could include animal and cell studies to investigate the mechanisms of side effects and large-scale clinical trials to determine the frequency and severity of side effects.

Conclusion

Rimantadine is an effective drug for preventing and treating influenza A virus infections. However, it is important to be aware of the risk of side effects. Take rimantadine only as directed by your doctor and report any changes in your health while taking the drug.