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Rimantadine is an antiviral drug used to treat and, in some cases, prevent influenza A virus infection. Here are some key details about rimantadine: Mechanism of Action: Rimantadine is classified as an Influenza A M2 Protein Inhibitor. Its primary mechanism of action is to inhibit the M2 protein of the influenza A virus. This inhibition interferes with the virus's ability to replicate and spread within the host. Medical Use: Rimantadine is administered orally and is used to treat influenzavirus A infection. It is most effective when taken within one to two days of the onset of influenza symptoms. Rimantadine can help shorten the duration of the illness and reduce the severity of symptoms, including fever. Comparison with Amantadine: Rimantadine and amantadine are both derivatives of adamantane and have similar mechanisms of action. However, rimantadine is often considered more effective than amantadine in mitigating influenza symptoms, and patients treated with rimantadine tend to experience fewer symptoms. FDA Approval: Rimantadine was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1994 for medical use. Resistance: It's important to note that seasonal H3N2 and 2009 pandemic flu samples have shown resistance to rimantadine. Due to this resistance, rimantadine is no longer recommended for the treatment of the flu in some cases. Overall, rimantadine is an antiviral agent that can be effective in the prophylaxis and treatment of influenza A virus infection when used appropriately and when the virus is not resistant to it.

Chemical and Physical Properties

Source: PubChem