Effects of Amantadine Sulfate on Motor Impairment and Execution of Motor Sequences in Patients With Parkinson Disease

Abstract

Background Intravenous application of amantadine sulfate induces a rapid improvement of motor behavior in patients with Parkinson disease. Objectives To determine efficacy of daily infusion of 200 mg amantadine sulfate on scored motor symptoms and performance of standardized movement sequences with components of low and high cognitive efforts. Methods Thirty-one participants received infusions of amantadine sulfate in addition to their previous stable drug regimens on 3 consecutive days. Motor symptoms of upper limbs were determined with selected items of the part motor examination of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale. Instrumental tasks were executed under cued conditions before and after the infusions. Results Scored motor symptoms and components with a need for a higher cognitive load became better. Performance of motion series, characterized by an automated set with low cognitive efforts, did not improve. Conclusion Our trial outcomes suggest that the amantadine has a positive impact on cognitive abilities, drive, and vigilance, all of which are necessary for carrying out of higher brain functions.