Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Ask your doctor or pharmacist when to take your medication since different brands are taken at different times (either in the morning, or at bedtime). Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush, chew, or split the capsules/tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.

If you using the capsules and have trouble swallowing them whole, you may open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on a small amount of soft food (such as applesauce) just before taking. Swallow the mixture right away without chewing. Do not save it to take later.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Your condition may get worse if this drug is suddenly stopped or if your dose is quickly decreased. Your doctor may gradually reduce your dose to lessen the chance of symptoms such as agitation, anxiety, hallucinations, depression, or trouble speaking. Tell your doctor right away of any new or worsening symptoms.

Amantadine may take several weeks to have an effect. Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.