Memantine – What It Is, How To Use It And Side Effects!

Memantine – What is it for, how to use it and side effects  that can be caused by this medication. In addition, Memantine  is used to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD; a brain disease that slowly destroys memory and the ability to think, learn, communicate, and handle daily activities). Memantine is in  a class of drugs called NMDA receptor antagonists.

It works by decreasing abnormal activity in the brain. Memantine  can improve the ability to think and remember or it can delay the loss of these skills in people who have AD . However, Memantine  will not cure AD or prevent the loss of these abilities at some point in the future.

What is Memantine?

Memantine  is a prescription drug. It comes in three forms: immediate-release tablet, oral solution, and extended-release capsule.

Memantine  oral tablet is available as the brand name drug Namenda. It is also available as a generic drug. Generic drugs usually cost less than the branded version. In some cases, they may not be available in all strengths or forms like the brand-name drug.

• Memantine can  be used as part of a combination therapy. That means you need to take it with other drugs to treat dementia associated with Alzheimer’s disease .
• Memantine  reduces the actions of chemicals in the brain that can contribute to the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease .
• Memantine  is used in the treatment of moderate to severe dementia of the Alzheimer ‘s type .
• Memantine may  also be used for purposes not mentioned in this medication guide.

Uses of Memantine:

Memantine is used to treat  moderate to severe confusion (dementia) related to Alzheimer’s disease . It does not cure Alzheimer’s disease , but it can improve memory, awareness, and the ability to perform daily functions. This medication works by blocking the action of a certain natural substance in the brain (glutamate) that is believed to be linked to the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease .

How to use Memantine:

Read the package insert if available from your pharmacist, before taking Memantine  and whenever you receive a shipment. If you are in any doubt, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. When you first start taking this medication, you should usually take it once a day. To reduce the risk of side effects, your doctor may advise you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Once your dose increases to more than 5 milligrams per day, take this medication twice daily or as directed by your doctor.

If you are taking oral liquid Memantine  , read the manufacturer’s instruction sheet that comes with the bottle. Use the oral syringe provided with the product to measure your dose. Do not use a household spoon as you may not get the correct dose. Swallow the medication directly from the syringe. Do not mix with water or other liquids. Wash the syringe with water after each use. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are in any doubt.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit. To help you remember, take it at the same time every day.

Tell your doctor if the problem gets worse.

Memantine side effects:

Body aches, dizziness, constipation ,  and headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Remember that your doctor prescribed this medication because he thought the benefit outweighed the risk of side effects. Many people who use this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this remedy is rare. However, seek medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue and throat), severe dizziness and difficulty breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions:

Before taking Memantine , tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic; or if you have other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, urinary tract infections, recent dietary changes (from a high-protein diet to a vegetarian diet).

This medicine can make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machines, or do anything else that needs attention until you can safely run. Limit on alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all products used (including prescription, over-the-counter and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Interactions:

Drug interactions can change the way your medications work or increase your risk of serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all products used (including prescription, over-the-counter and herbal products) and share with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medication without your doctor’s approval.

Some products that may interact with this remedy include: carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (such as acetazolamide, metazolamide) and sodium bicarbonate.

Overdose:

If someone overdoses and has severe symptoms, such as fainting or difficulty breathing, call 911. Symptoms of overdose may include: restlessness, personality change, hallucinations, drowsiness and loss of consciousness.

Grades:

Do not share this medicine with others.

Missed Dose:

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

If you forget to take Memantine  for several days, talk to your doctor before your next dose. It may be necessary to start over at a lower dose and increase it slowly.

Storage:

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or down a drain unless recommended. Dispose of this product properly when it expires or is no longer needed.