Recurrent herpes simplex sciatica and its treatment with amantadine hydrochloride.

Seven patients with recurrent herpes simplex and sciatic neuralgia are presented. All were premenopausal women, and six had premenstrual onset. Amantadine hydrochloride taken at the first sign and symptoms of herpes simplex vesiculation prevented or aborted neuralgia in the six patients given this medication. Recognition of the herpes simplex sciatica syndrome is important because the signs and symptoms associated with this condition may lead to unnecessary myelography. Herpes simplex radiculitis, including herpes simplex sciatica, may occur more frequently than recognized.