Amantadine

Definition

Amantadine is an antiviral and antiparkinsonian drug that inhibits the replication of certain viruses by blocking the viral protein M2. It is also used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease due to its dopaminergic effects.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Amantadine is effective against Influenza A virus but not Influenza B.
2. It works by inhibiting the M2 protein, which is essential for viral uncoating and replication.
3. Amantadine can cross the blood-brain barrier, allowing it to have central nervous system effects.
4. Resistance to amantadine can develop through mutations in the M2 protein.
5. It has been largely replaced by neuraminidase inhibitors for treating influenza due to widespread resistance.

Review Questions

• What type of viruses does amantadine target?
• How does amantadine inhibit viral replication?
• Why has the use of amantadine declined in treating influenza?

Related terms

Neuraminidase Inhibitors: A class of antiviral drugs that block the function of neuraminidase, preventing viral replication.

Dopaminergic Agents: Medications that affect dopamine levels or receptors, often used in Parkinson's disease treatment.

M2 Protein: A proton channel involved in the uncoating process of Influenza A virus during infection.