Description
Indications
Memantine is utilized for the management of symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease, characterized by a gradual decline in cognitive functions such as memory, learning, communication, and daily activities. Categorized as an NMDA receptor antagonist, memantine operates by reducing abnormal brain activity. Its therapeutic effect may potentially enhance cognitive abilities or delay their deterioration in individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
Uses and Dosage
Memantine is available in tablet, solution, and extended-release capsule formulations for oral administration. The tablet and solution are typically administered once or twice daily, with or without food, whereas the capsule is taken once daily, with or without food.
Adhere to the prescribed dosing regimen as instructed on the medication label, and seek clarification from the physician or pharmacist on any ambiguous information. Consistency in timing is recommended to facilitate adherence to the medication regimen. Avoid exceeding or reducing the prescribed dose or frequency without consulting the doctor.
The extended-release capsule should be ingested whole, and not chewed, divided, or crushed. If you encounter difficulties swallowing the capsule, you may open it carefully and sprinkle its contents on a spoonful of applesauce before swallowing the mixture without chewing it. Do not store the mixture for future use.
When taking the oral solution, use the oral syringe provided by the manufacturer to measure the correct dosage, following the instructions carefully. Slowly dispense the medication from the syringe into a corner of your mouth before swallowing it, avoiding any mixing with other liquids. After use, remember to reseal the bottle and clean the oral syringe, as directed.
The physician is likely to initiate therapy with a low dose of memantine and gradually increase the dosage, preferably not more than once weekly.
Although memantine aids in managing Alzheimer’s disease symptoms, it does not cure the disorder. Continue taking memantine even if you feel better, and do not halt therapy without consulting your physician.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- Confusion
- Less common
- Anxiety
- back pain
- bladder pain
- bloody or cloudy urine
- change in walking and balance
- chills
- clumsiness or unsteadiness
- cough producing mucus
- coughing
- diarrhea
- difficult, burning, or painful urination
- difficulty with breathing
- difficulty with moving
- discouragement
- dry mouth
- fear
- feeling sad or empty
- fever
- frequent urge to urinate
- general feeling of discomfort or illness
- hyperventilation
- insomnia
- irritability
- joint pain
- sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet
- blurred vision
- dizziness
- headache
- nervousness
- pounding in the ears
- rapid weight gain
- slow or fast heartbeat
- tingling of the hands or feet
- unusual weight gain or loss
Caution
- Prior to taking memantine, notify your physician or pharmacist if you have any known allergies, including allergies to the medication itself or other substances. Inactive ingredients contained in the product may cause allergic reactions or other complications.
- Inform your physician or pharmacist about your medical history, notably kidney issues, severe urinary tract infections, and recent changes in dietary habits, such as transitioning from a high-protein diet to a vegetarian diet.
- This medication may cause dizziness, and combining it with alcohol or marijuana may exacerbate this effect. Refrain from operating machinery or driving until you are sure that you can do so safely.
- During pregnancy, this medication should only be administered when the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Consult your physician to understand the risks and benefits of the medication before use.
- It is unclear whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Namenda XR is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Namenda XR extended-release capsule:
- 7 mg
- 14 mg
- 21 mg
- 28 mg
- memantine extended-release capsule:
- 21 mg
FAQ
Does it matter what time of day you take Namenda?
You can take Namenda at whatever time of day you find easiest to remember, but try to take your dose at the same time of day each day. It can be taken either with or without food.
How do you know if Namenda is working?
Studies have shown that most people taking Namenda will start to see symptoms improve within a few months of taking it.
Resources
- https://patient.info/medicine/memantine-for-dementia-ebixa-marixino-valios#:~:text=You%20can%20take%20memantine%20at,is%20supplied%20with%20the%20bottle
- https://www.sharecare.com/health/central-nervous-system-drugs/after-taking-namenda-symptoms-improve#:~:text=Studies%20have%20shown%20that%20most,as%20early%20as%2014%20days
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/memantine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20067012
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604006.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-164106/namenda-xr-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/dosage/namenda-xr.html