Namenda XR
Generic name:memantine [ meh-MAN-teen ]
Brand names: Namenda, Namenda XR
Drug class:Miscellaneous central nervous system agents
What is Namenda XR?
Namenda XR reduces the actions of chemicals in the brain that may contribute to the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
Namenda XR is used to treat moderate to severe dementia of the Alzheimer's type.
Namenda XR may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Namenda XR if you are allergic to it.
To make sure Namenda XR is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
kidney disease;
urination problems; or
a bladder or kidney infection.
Namenda XR is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It is not known whether memantine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take Namenda XR?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Namenda XR can be taken with or without food.
Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release capsule. Swallow it whole.
To make swallowing easier, you may open the extended-release capsule and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of applesauce. Swallow right away without chewing. Do not save the mixture for later use.
Measure liquid medicine (oral solution) with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
Do not mix the oral solution with any other liquids.
Rinse the empty oral syringe with clean water and allow it to air dry after every use.
Use Namenda XR regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.
Your doctor will need to check your progress while you are using Namenda...
