Studies on Induced Influenza in Man

Abstract

Prophylactic administration of amantadine hydrochloride diminished significantly the occurrence and severity of experimentally induced Asian influenza illness in double-blind studies conducted in 58 volunteers. No difference in infection (seroconversion) rate was observed but serum neutralizing antibody titers were significantly lower in men receiving amantadine compared to those of control subjects. Reduction in the severity and occurrence of disease and lower postchallenge antibody level are based probably on indirect inhibition of virus multiplication and consequent diminution of antigenic stimulation.