Lancet neurology
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The efficacy of amantadine in the symptomatic treatment of patients with Parkinson's disease, discovered serendipitously more than 50 years ago, has stood the test of time and the drug is still commonly used by neurologists today. Its pharmacological actions are unique in combining dopaminergic and glutamatergic properties, which account for its dual effect on parkinsonian signs and symptoms and levodopa-induced dyskinesias. ⋯ Other uses of amantadine, such as in the treatment of drug-induced parkinsonism, atypical parkinsonism, Huntington's disease, or tardive dyskinesia, lack a strong evidence base. Future trials should examine its role in the management of motor and non-motor symptoms in patients with early Parkinson's disease and those with other movement disorders.