Amantadine Speeds Return to Consciousness After Brain Injury

"We conclude that amantadine is effective in accelerating the pace of recovery during acute rehabilitation in patients with prolonged post-traumatic disturbances in consciousness. Exposure to amantadine is associated with more rapid emergence of cognitively mediated behaviors that serve as the foundation for functional independence," Dr. Giacino and his associates wrote.

The study was supported by the U.S. National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research. Dr. Giacino reported no relevant financial conflicts of interest, but a coauthor reported ties to Allergan, Merz, Ipsen, and Medtronic. Several other coauthors disclosed providing expert testimony on patients with TBI and disorders of consciousness.