Namenda

The active ingredient in Namenda is memantine hydrochloride. Memantine belongs to a class of medications known as NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) or receptor antagonists. NMDA (otherwise known as glutamate) is an excitatory neurotransmitter that is thought to cause many of the symptoms seen in Alzheimer’s disease. By blocking NMDA from binding to the NMDA receptor in the brain, memantine can help manage some of the impairment seen in this condition. Namenda does not affect the mechanism of action of other dementia medications (such as donepezil, galantamine, rivastigmine, or tacrine) and may be used in combination for management. Currently, no evidence supports Namenda’s role in preventing further progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Namenda. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Namenda:

• Namenda should be used exactly as prescribed. Your exact regimen will be highly individual, and your doctor may adjust depending on your response.
• Typically, Namenda is taken with or without food.
• The extended-release capsule should be swallowed whole. Do not crush, chew, or break it. If you have trouble swallowing, you can open the capsule and sprinkle the medication into a spoonful of applesauce. Swallow the mixture right away without chewing. Do not save it and take it later.
• If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule the following day. Do not double doses to make up for a missed one. If you forget to take Namenda for several days, do not take the next dose until you speak to your doctor. You may require a re-titration after not using it for a while.

The most common side effects of Namenda seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Confusion
• Constipation
• Diarrhea

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Namenda. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, eyes, or tongue

These are not all of the possible side effects of Namenda. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Namenda, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• A history of seizures
• Problems with passing urine
• Bladder problems
• Current urinary tract infection
• Kidney problems
• Liver problems
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

Do not use Namenda if you have:

• An allergy to memantine or any of the other ingredients in Namenda

Namenda will start to work right after the first dose. However, it may take several weeks of regular use to see the full effect of memantine.

When Namenda is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Amantadine
• Ketamine
• Dextromethorphan
• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors such as acetazolamide and methazolamide
• Sodium bicarbonate

Namenda immediate-release oral tablets are available in the following doses:

• 5 mg
• 10 mg

Namenda is available in another dosage form known as Namenda XR. This is an extended-release capsule that can be taken less frequently and comes in strengths of 7 mg and 28 mg. It is also available in a 2 mg/ml oral solution.

Namenda should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children.

Namenda is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Allergan.

Yes, there is a generic available for the brand-name Namenda.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Namenda.

It is unknown if Namenda can harm the unborn child. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown if Namenda passes into the breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.