A nurse is preparing to administer amantadine 150 mg PO for a client who is experiencing parkinsonism due to an antipsychotic medication.

Available is amantadine 50 mg/5 mL oral solution.

How many mL should the nurse administer?
(Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)

Choice A rationale:

1 cup (8oz) plain low-fat yogurt. This is incorrect choice. Yogurt is a high-protein food that can increase nausea and reduce the absorption of levodopa/carbidopa. According to the American Parkinson Disease Association, taking levodopa/carbidopa with a small, low-protein snack can help with nausea symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

1 cup (8oz) of applesauce. This is a correct choice. Applesauce is a low-protein, low-fiber food that can help reduce nausea and improve the absorption of levodopa/carbidopa. According to Drugs.com, taking levodopa/carbidopa with foods that have a high fiber content can delay the drug’s absorption into the body. Applesauce also contains natural sugars that can provide some energy and hydration to the client.

Choice C rationale:

1 cup (8 oz) cooked spinach. This is an incorrect choice. Spinach is a high-protein, high-fiber food that can increase nausea and decrease the absorption of levodopa/carbidopa. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation3, dietary protein can interfere with the absorption of levodopa by competing with the same transporter in the gut and the brain. High-fiber foods can also slow down the gastric emptying and reduce the drug’s availability.

Choice D rationale:

1 oz of cheddar cheese. This is an incorrect choice. Cheese is a high-protein, high-fat food that can increase nausea and decrease the absorption of levodopa/carbidopa. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, dietary protein can interfere with the absorption of levodopa by competing with the same transporter in the gut and the brain. High-fat foods can also delay the gastric emptying and reduce the drug’s availability.

Choice A rationale:

The client should indeed notify their provider before taking any other medications, as phenytoin can interact with many other drugs. This statement does not indicate a need for further teaching.

Choice B rationale:

Regular dental appointments are important as phenytoin can cause gum hyperplasia. This statement does not indicate a need for further teaching.

Choice C rationale:

This statement indicates a misunderstanding. Phenytoin is used to control seizures, not cure them. The client should not stop taking the medication when their seizures stop.

Choice D rationale:

Phenytoin can be taken with or without food, but it should be taken consistently in the same manner. This statement does not indicate a need for further teaching.

So, the correct answer is C, after analyzing all choices.