Amantadine and influenza A.

Amantadine hydrochloride is currently licensed for the prophylaxis and symptomatic treatment of influenza A infections. Although its efficacy is based on considerable clinical experience, amantadine has had relatively little use for that purpose in the U.S. It is well tolerated and generally nontoxic. It may be particularly useful in the prophylaxis of unvaccinated high-risk individuals and critical personnel. Effective use of amantadine depends on rapid detection of influenza A activity in the community.