Indications 

Namenda is a prescription medicine indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe 

dementia of the Alzheimer’s type.  

As an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, Namenda blocks the activity of glutamate, a natural brain substance associated with Alzheimer’s disease symptoms. 

Namenda can enhance cognitive function and memory retention or delay their decline in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, but it does not offer a cure or long-term prevention of these abilities. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Namenda and every time you get a refill, carefully read its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns. 

The prescribed dosage of Namenda is determined by the patient’s medical condition and response to the treatment.  Typically, doctors start with a low dosage and gradually increase it to minimize the likelihood of side effects. 

Namenda may be taken with or without food. Initially, the tablet is usually taken once a day, but as the dosage increases beyond 5 milligrams, it is taken twice daily or as directed by the doctor. 

Take Namenda regularly, exactly as directed, around the same time(s) every day. Do not take more or less than prescribed or take it more frequently than instructed by the doctor. 

Keep taking Namenda even if you feel fine. Do not discontinue its use without consulting your doctor. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the possible side effects of Namenda. Tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly if any of them last or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Diarrhea 
• Dizziness 
• Headache 

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in the neck or ears 
• Seizures (convulsions) 
• Unusual changes in behavior or mood 

Call your doctor right away if you experience any of the severe symptoms listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Rare but severe allergic reactions may occur while taking Namenda. Seek emergency medical help if you observe any of the following symptoms: 

• Hives 
• Difficult breathing 
• Facial, lips, tongue, or throat swelling 

The adverse effects of Namenda listed here are not comprehensive. If you experience any other effects not mentioned above, tell your doctor promptly. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Namenda, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you have any allergies, especially to memantine, other medications, or any ingredients present in Namenda tablets.  

Prior to taking Namenda, inform your physician of your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Kidney issues 
• Serious urinary tract infections 
• Recent dietary modifications from a high-protein to a vegetarian diet 

To prevent any drug interactions, tell your doctor and pharmacist all your medications, including prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. 

Some products that may interact with Namenda include: 

• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors such as: 
  • Acetazolamide 
  • Methazolamide 
• Sodium bicarbonate 

Namenda may result in side effects that could hinder your cognitive abilities or responsiveness. Exercise caution while performing activities such as driving or any other task requiring wakefulness and attentiveness. 

Due to the lack of sufficient and well-conducted research studies on Namenda in pregnant women, this medication should only be taken during pregnancy if the possible benefits outweigh the potential risk to the developing fetus. 

The transfer of memantine into breast milk and the possibility of harm to a nursing infant are unknown. Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you are currently nursing an infant.