NAMENDA (MEMANTINE)

Namenda Description

Namenda or the generic Memantine may be prescribed to treat moderate to severe dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease. Namenda does not cure Alzheimer's disease, but it may improve memory, awareness, and the ability to perform daily functions. Namenda or Memantine generic is a glutamate pathway modifier that may help regulate the abnormal activity of glutamate, one of the chemicals in the brain that is important for learning and memory. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Conditions Treated by Namenda

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, a group of brain disorders that result in the loss of intellectual and social skills. Alzheimer's disease affects the portion of the brain that controls memory, language, and other cognitive skills. Memory loss, confusion, poor judgment, getting lost, language mistakes, misplacing items, apathy, moodiness, and personality changes are symptoms commonly seen with Alzheimer’s disease.The brain cells degenerate and die, causing a steady decline in memory and mental function.

Non-drug approaches include talking therapies, cognitive stimulation, reminiscence therapy and life story work may also be employed in addition to treatment with Namenda. The patient should remain physically, mentally and socially active as well as eating well and having regular check-ups of their physical health. Physical exercise in particular is beneficial.

Although the exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is not known, scientists believe that Alzheimer's disease results from a combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors that affect the brain over time.

Before You Take Namenda

Before you begin taking Namenda, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. To make sure Namenda is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have: epilepsy or seizure disorder; liver disease; kidney disease; urination problems; bladder or kidney infection.

Warnings for Namenda

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that Namenda is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.

Possible Side Effects of Namenda

• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Headache
• Constipation

You should contact your doctor if you experience any of these more serious side effects; shortness of breath, hallucinations, fainting or seizures.