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Relenza vs. Symmetrel

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Zanamivir (Relenza) and amantadine are both medications used to treat conditions related to the flu, but they belong to different medication classes and have important differences. Zanamivir is a neuraminidase inhibitor used to treat and prevent influenza types A and B. It is inhaled through a special device and is not recommended for people with asthma or COPD due to the risk of bronchospasm. Common side effects include runny nose and dizziness. Amantadine, on the other hand, is an NMDA antagonist primarily used to treat movement disorders like Parkinson's disease and extrapyramidal symptoms. It is taken orally and can cause side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and trouble sleeping. Unlike zanamivir, amantadine is available in generic form and can be taken as a solution for those who have trouble swallowing pills. Amantadine should not generally be used for treating or preventing the flu because of viral resistance.

Relenza

(zanamivir)

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Amantadine

 

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Summary for Relenza

Prescription only

Relenza (zanamivir) is an antiviral medication. It can help ease flu symptoms and prevent the flu in certain adults and children. But it doesn't replace the seasonal flu vaccine. Relenza (zanamivir) comes as an inhaler that's inhaled by mouth twice daily for flu treatment or once daily for flu prevention. Because of the rare risk of bronchospasm, people who have asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) aren't recommended to use this medication. Common side effects include runny nose and dizziness. Relenza (zanamivir) is brand name only and not available as a generic medication.

Indications for Relenza

  • Flu treatment (flu types A and B) - age 7 years and older
  • Flu prevention (flu types A and B) - age 5 years and older

Pros and Cons for Relenza

Pros

  • Works for influenza types A and B
  • Inhaled; good option for people who don't like to take pills
  • Can prevent household members from spreading the flu to each other

Cons

  • Not recommended for people with asthma or COPD because of risk of bronchospasm
  • Need to start early for it to work well (within 2 days of symptoms appearing)
  • Won't stop the spread of flu to others, if you're already sick with the flu

Common Side Effects for Relenza

  • Diarrhea (3%)
  • Nausea (3%)
  • Sinus infection (3%)
  • Ear, nose, and throat infections (2%)
  • Dizziness (2%)
  • Bronchitis (2%)
  • Headache (2%)
  • Nose symptoms (2%)
  • Cough (2%)

Warnings for Relenza

  • Bronchospasm (tightening of the airways)
  • Allergic reactions
  • Unusual thoughts or behavior
  • Proper use of Diskhaler

Summary for Symmetrel

Prescription only

Amantadine is an NMDA antagonist. It's used to treat symptoms of movement disorders in adults, including Parkinson’s disease (PD). It works by raising the levels of dopamine in your body, which helps coordinate movements. Amantadine is taken by mouth, typically once or twice daily. Some side effects of this medication include nausea, dizziness, and trouble sleeping.

Indications for Symmetrel

Pros and Cons for Symmetrel

Pros

  • Taken by mouth
  • Might need to take only once daily
  • Available as a solution for people who've trouble swallowing pills

Cons

  • Might not be a safe option during pregnancy
  • Not recommended to take with alcohol because can lead to dizziness and confusion
  • Can cause unusual urges or changes in mood

Common Side Effects for Symmetrel

  • Nausea (5-10%)
  • Dizziness (5-10%)
  • Trouble sleeping (5-10%)

Warnings for Symmetrel

  • Falling asleep during daily activities
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior
  • Problems with mood and hallucinations
  • Low blood pressure and dizziness
  • High fever and confusion from withdrawal
  • Unusual urges and impulsive behaviors
  • Risk of death from overdose
  • Seizures
  • Heart failure
  • Kidney problems
  • Liver problems
  • Possible risk of skin cancer

Prices with our coupons for Relenza vs. Symmetrel

Price Card Drug Icon
Relenza1 inhaler / 5mg
$62.89-
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Amantadine30 tablets / 100mg
$19.20$36.06
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