Brand name:
Namenda
Pronounced: nah-MEN-dah
Generic name:
Memantine
Why is Namenda prescribed?
Namenda is a new kind of medication used for treating moderate to
severe Alzheimer's disease. While other Alzheimer's drugs work to
prevent the breakdown of the brain chemical acetylcholine, Namenda
works by targeting glutamate. Both chemicals are associated with
memory and learning. Studies show that Namenda can help improve the
mental state and daily functioning of some people with Alzheimer's
disease.
Most important fact about Namenda
Remember that Namenda does not cure or slow the progression of
Alzheimer's disease; it merely treats the symptoms.
How should you take Namenda?
Namenda should be taken exactly as prescribed. The dose of
Namenda is increased gradually at 1-week intervals. Be sure to wait
at least 1 week before increasing the dose. Using doses that are
higher than recommended provides no additional benefit. Namenda may
be taken with or without food.
--If you miss a dose...
Give the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it
is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and return
to your regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
Namenda side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe to continue using Namenda.
- Side effects may include:
Confusion,
constipation,
coughing,
dizziness,
hallucinations,
headache,
high blood pressure,
pain,
sleepiness,
vomiting
Why should Namenda not be prescribed?
People who have ever had an allergic reaction to Namenda should
not take Namenda.
Special warnings about Namenda
Namenda is not recommended for use in patients who have severe
kidney impairment.
Certain conditions can alter the alkaline balance of the urine,
which may cause a buildup of Namenda in the body. Be sure to tell
the doctor about any major dietary changes, kidney problems such as
renal acidosis, or urinary tract infections.
Make sure the doctor knows about any history of seizures. Namenda
has not been formally studied in people with seizure disorders.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Namenda
If Namenda is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of
either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially
important to check with the doctor before combining Namenda with the
following:
Amantadine (Symmetrel)
Cimetadine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB)
Cough suppressants that contain dextromethorphan (usually
denoted as "DM")
Glaucoma drugs such as Diamox and Neptazane
Hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL)
Ketamine (Ketalar)
Nicotine (Nicoderm patch, Nicorette gum)
Quinidine (Quinidex)
Ranitidine (Zantac)
Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda, Alka-Seltzer)
Triamterene (Dyrenium)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Namenda is not usually prescribed for women of childbearing age.
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
It should be used in pregnant women only if the potential benefit to
the mother outweighs the risk to the fetus.
It is not known whether Namenda appears in human breast milk. If
Namenda is essential to your health, the doctor may advise you to
stop nursing until your treatment is finished.
Recommended dosage for Namenda
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If
you suspect an overdose, seek emergency treatment immediately.
- Symptoms of overdose may include:
Loss of consciousness,
hallucinations,
psychosis,
restlessness,
sleepiness,
stupor
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