Other Antiviral Agents, Amantadine, Rimantadine

Amantadine/ rimantadine inhibit uncoating of the viral RNA of influenza A within infected host cells, thus preventing its replication. Both agents are effective in the prevention of influenza a virus infection in high-risk individuals. Additionally, both drugs can be used in the treatment of influenza A, effectively reducing the duration of symptoms when administered within 48 hours after their onset. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal intolerance and central nervous system effects (eg, nervousness, difficulty in concentrating, lightheadedness).