FLUMADINE
General description

Flumadine is the brand name for the drug rimantadine produced by Forest Pharmaceuticals. It is a synthetic antiviral drug used to treat infection by various strains of influenza A virus. Flumadine is available in tablet and syrup forms, both for oral administration.

Mechanism

The mechanism is not fully understood. It appears to inhibit the viral replicative cycle early on byt possibly inhibiting virus uncoating.

Indications

Flumadine is indicated for prophylaxis and treatment of infections caused by various strains of influenza A virus.

Usage/Dosage

For adults, the recommended treatment is 100 mg of Flumadine twice daily. Dosage should be reduced to 100 mg once daily for patients with severe hepatic or renal dysfunction.

Precautions

Flumadine has been linked to increased incidence of seizure in patients with histories of epilepsy. In populations at high risk for influenza infection, transfer of rimantadine resistant strains should be considered. Flumadine interacts with cimetidine , acetaminophen, and aspirin in a manner that reduces efficy of treatment.

Contraindications

Flumadine is contraindicated for patients with known hypersensitivity to drugs of the amantadine class, including rimantadine and amantadine.

Potential Adverse Effects

For patients with normal renal and hepatic function, Flumadine produced a low frequency of adverse effects.