In Sri Lanka, flu epidemics are coming from time to time, aren't they? Many of us get confused about the difference between a common cold and influenza. So, today we are going to talk about a special medicine that is given against one specific type of influenza, that is, the Influenza A virus. The name of that medicine is Rimantadine. If a doctor recommends this to you or someone in your family, it is very important to be aware of it.
What kind of medicine is Rimantadine?
Simply put, Rimantadine is an antiviral drug . That is, it is a drug that suppresses viruses and controls the spread of viruses in the body. But it does not work for all viruses. Just as one key cannot open all locks, this drug only works for the type of virus called Influenza A.
One thing that confuses many people is that this medicine is not useful for the common cold, other types of influenza (e.g. influenza B), or other viral fevers. Therefore, this medicine should only be used after a correct diagnosis by a doctor.
Doctors sometimes recommend this medicine to treat influenza A fever and also to prevent it from developing.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, he or she will need to know your complete medical history. Only then will you be able to decide whether this medicine is safe for you and what the dosage should be. If you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor.
| Your situation | Why is notification important? |
|---|---|
| Kidney disease | The kidneys are the ones that filter and remove drugs from the body. If there is a problem with the kidneys, the drugs can accumulate in the body and increase the side effects. |
| Liver disease | Because the liver changes the way medications work, people with liver disease may need to adjust their dosage. |
| Epilepsy or seizures (Seizures) | This medicine may sometimes increase the risk of seizures. |
| Recently received or scheduled intranasal flu vaccine | Rimantadine may interfere with the effectiveness of live nasal vaccines. |
| Allergies to Rimantadine, Amantadine or other medicines/foods | If you have had an allergy before, you may develop a severe allergy again. |
| Being pregnant or trying to get pregnant | It is essential to talk to your doctor about the possible effects on the baby during pregnancy. |
| Breastfeeding | Medical advice should be sought regarding whether this medicine can pass to the baby through breast milk. |
How should I use this medicine?
- Drink with a glass of water: Take the medicine at the prescribed time, as prescribed by the doctor.
- Complete the course: This is very important. Some people stop taking the medicine as soon as the illness subsides. Do not do that. If you do, the virus may not be completely gone, and the illness may worsen again. You should take this for the full number of days prescribed by the doctor.
- Don't skip a dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once.
- If given to children: This is sometimes given to children over one year of age. However, it should only be given under the advice and supervision of a pediatrician .
- Do not share with others: This is a medicine for you only. The right dose for your condition may not be right for someone else. Therefore, never share this medicine with others.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
It's a good idea to pay attention to changes in your body while taking this medication.
Drowsiness and dizziness
Some people may feel a little drowsy or dizzy when taking this medicine. Therefore, it is wise to avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how this medicine affects you. Especially if you are elderly, stand up slowly when standing or getting up from a sitting position to reduce the risk of dizziness and falls.
Be aware of behavioral changes in children and young people!
This is very important. When you have a fever, especially in children and young adults, you may suddenly experience confusion or unusual behavior . This is more likely to be related to the fever itself than to the Rimantadine itself.
Imagine, your child may suddenly become agitated, behave strangely, and do unimaginable things. This is not common, but it can be dangerous if it happens, so as parents and guardians, you should pay close attention to this. If you notice anything strange in your child's behavior, talk to your doctor immediately.
Not a substitute for the flu vaccine
Rimantadine is a medicine given when you get a cold, not a replacement for the annual flu shot that prevents the flu. Talk to your doctor about the importance of getting a flu shot every year.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medication, Rimantadine can cause some side effects. Some of these can be dangerous, so it's important to be aware of them early.
| Side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
|---|---|
| Allergy symptoms | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue or face. |
| Breathing difficulties | Difficulty breathing, feeling of tightness in the chest. |
| Changes in heart rate | Chest pain, palpitations. |
| Seizures | A sudden seizure. |
| Unusual fatigue | Excessive fatigue and weakness for no reason. |
| Side effects that are usually not dangerous, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Insomnia | Headache |
| Dizziness | Appetite |
| Dry mouth | Nausea, stomach pain |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything different, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Rimantadine is an antiviral that is given only to a specific virus called influenza A. It does not work for the common cold.
- Before taking the medicine, be sure to tell your doctor about any other illnesses you have, other medications you are taking, and any allergies you have.
- Take the medicine for the full number of days prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop taking it just because the pain has subsided.
- Pay close attention to any unusual changes in behavior, especially in children and young people, while taking the medication.
- This medicine is not a substitute for the annual flu vaccine.
- If you have any questions about the medication or experience any side effects, consult your doctor immediately.
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