Namenda
Generic Name: Memantine
What is Namenda?
Namenda is used to treat patients with Alzheimer's disease.What is the most important information I should know about Namenda?
Namenda should be used with caution when used with other medications known as "NMDA antagonists," such as amantadine, ketamine, or dextromethorphan.Use caution when eating certain foods or taking other drugs (such as sodium bicarbonate) that can change the pH of your urine. Ask your doctor for a list of foods and drugs to watch out for.
You should also be cautious taking Namenda if you have severe liver or kidney problems, or if you have a severe urinary tract infection.
Who should not take Namenda?
You should not take Namenda if you are allergic or sensitive to memantine or any other ingredient in Namenda.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Namenda?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Namenda. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver disease, or any condition that can change the pH of your urine.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The usual starting dose is 5 milligrams (mg) taken once a day. Your doctor may then gradually increase your dose. The usual maintenance dose is 10 mg taken twice a day (morning and evening).
How should I take Namenda?
Namenda may be taken with or without food. A daily dose of 5 mg should be taken in the morning; all doses higher than 5 mg should be divided into two doses, taken every morning and evening.If you are taking Namenda oral solution, your doctor will provide instructions on how to use the dosing device. Do not mix Namenda oral solution with any other liquid.
What should I avoid while taking Namenda?
You should avoid food and drugs that make the urine alkaline, such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors and sodium bicarbonate. Urine that is alkalinized will affect how your body eliminates Namenda and may increase your risk for side effects.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with 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 your doctor before combining Namenda with the following: cimetidine, hydrochlorothiazide, metformin, nicotine, NMDA antagonists (amantadine, ketamine, or dextromethorphan), quinidine, ranitidine, and triamterene.What are the possible side effects of Namenda?
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 for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: headache, high blood pressure, dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, pain, tiredness, constipation, vomiting, cough, back pain, shortness of breath
Can I receive Namenda if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
You should not use Namenda during pregnancy unless your doctor instructs you to and is aware that you are pregnant. It is not known whether Namenda is excreted in breast milk. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Namenda?
Take a missed dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Namenda?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Shereen A. Gharbia, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
