Striking anti depressive effects in some people have been attributed to its antiviral
activity against human Borna chronic condition virus (BDV) infection which is frequently
seen in people with depressive episodes. In an 8 to 12 week open study of oral amantadine
in 30 depressed people with various states of BDV infection there was found a significant
anti depressive response in 19 of 30 people.
Peripheral BDV antigen indicating acute infection was cleared in both responders
and non-responders, but only in responders was peripheral infection significantly
reduced.
Used for:
Apathy in Multiple Sclerosis.
Cocaine dependence.
The treatment and prophylaxis of viral infections.
Treating symptoms of Parkinson's chronic condition.
It has also been reported as having mild anti depressive effects although not sufficient
to warrant its use as an antidepressant.
