Symmetrel is used for:

Preventing and treating certain types of flu. It is used to treat Parkinson disease and uncontrolled muscle movements caused by some medicines. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.Symmetrel is an antiparkinson and antiviral agent. How Symmetrel works against the flu is not known. It may block reproduction of the virus and decrease the ability of the virus to get into the cells. How Symmetrel works against Parkinson disease is not known. It may increase a certain chemical in the brain.

How to use Symmetrel:

Use Symmetrel as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Take Symmetrel by mouth with or without food.
• If you are using Symmetrel for the flu, take it for the full course of treatment. Keep using Symmetrel even if you feel better in a few days. This will help clear up your infection completely.
• If you miss a dose of Symmetrel , take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Symmetrel .

Possible side effects of Symmetrel:

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

• Appetite loss; blurred vision; constipation; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth or nose; headache; lightheadedness; nausea; strange dreams; tiredness; trouble sleeping.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

• Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); aggression; agitation; confusion; depression; fainting; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever; hallucinations; memory loss; mental or mood changes; muscle problems (eg, spasms, uncontrolled movements); paranoid thoughts; personality changes; seizures; severe or persistent drowsiness or trouble sleeping; shortness of breath; sore throat; swelling of hands, legs, feet, or ankles; thoughts of suicide; trouble urinating; unusual anxiety or irritability; vision changes.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions or need medical advice about side effects, contact your doctor or health care provider.

Proper storage of Symmetrel:

Store Symmetrel at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C), in a tightly closed container. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Symmetrel out of the reach of children and away from pets.