Namenda

Generic name: memantine hydrochloride

What is Namenda?

Namenda is a medication that blocks certain receptors in the brain thought to contribute to the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Namenda is used to treat moderate-to-severe dementia in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

What is the most important information I should know about Namenda?

If you are taking Namenda or are the caretaker of a patient who is taking Namenda, you should know that doses of greater than 5 milligrams (mg) a day should be split into two doses. Also, wait at least 1 week between dosage increases (see What is the Usual Dosage, below).

Namenda should not be taken with other medications known as "NMDA antagonists," such as amantadine, ketamine, or dextromethorphan.

You should use caution when eating certain foods or taking other drugs (sodium bicarbonate, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors) that can change the pH of your urine to be more alkaline.

You should also be cautious taking Namenda if you have a condition of the kidney called "renal tubular necrosis," 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 daily. Your doctor may then increase your dose up to 10 mg a day, taken in two doses. Next, your dose may be further increased to 15 mg, and then 20 mg daily (taken as two 10 mg doses). You should wait at least 1 week in between dosage increases, and do not increase your daily dose by more than 5 mg at one time.

How should I take Namenda?

Namenda may be taken with or without food and should be taken at the same time every day.

What should I avoid while taking Namenda?

You should not engage in activities that require mental alertness, such as driving an automobile, until you know how Namenda will affect you.

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 such as amantadine, ketamine, or dextromethorphan,Quinidine,Ranitidine,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, or shortness of breath.

Can I receive Namenda if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Namenda is a pregnancy category B medication. This means studies in animals have not shown adverse effects of Namenda on animal newborns, however adequate studies in humans have not yet been done. 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?

You should not double your dose of Namenda. Skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

How should I store Namenda?

You should store Namenda at room temperature.