Gatomen

Gatomen Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Gatomen is a brand name. Its generic name is Memantine.

What is Gatomen?

Gatomen is an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist that is prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. It works by preventing over-excitement in the brain and thus helping to restore normal body functions.

Uses of Gatomen

Gatomen is approved for the treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. It is being studied for treatment of Alzheimer's-related vascular dementia, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, fatigue due to Multiple Sclerosis, and other conditions.

Mechanism of Action

Gatomen blocks the activity of glutamate, an amino acid that can over-stimulate nerve cells and lead to cell death. By blocking the activity of glutamate, memantine can protect nerve cells from over-stimulation and help restore normal body functions.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

It may take up to 8 weeks for Gatomen to work. Some people may experience improvement in symptoms sooner than this, while others may not experience any improvement until after 8 weeks of treatment.

Absorption

Gatomen is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The peak plasma concentration occurs approximately 1.5 to 2 hours after oral administration.

Route of Elimination

Gatomen is eliminated primarily by the kidneys. It is metabolized into active metabolites that are excreted unchanged in the urine.

Dosage

The recommended starting dose of memantine is 5 mg twice daily. The dose can be increased to 10 mg twice daily after 1 week and, if needed, 20 mg twice daily after 2 weeks. The maximum recommended dose is 20 mg twice daily.

Administration

Gatomen is usually taken orally. The tablets should be swallowed with a glass of water. Gatomen can be taken with or without food.

Side Effects

Common side effects of memantine include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and fatigue. Other serious side effects include the worsening of psychiatric symptoms, increased blood pressure, and seizures.

Toxicity

Gatomen is not likely to be toxic at therapeutic doses. The most common side effects are mild and may go away with continued use. Significant toxicity is unlikely at therapeutic doses.

Precautions

Gatomen should not be used in people with severe kidney disease, as it may increase the risk of adverse effects. Caution should be exercised when administering memantine to elderly people with a history of stroke, as memantine may worsen their symptoms.

Interactions

Gatomen may interact with many other medications including sedatives, tricyclic antidepressants, other anticholinergic medications, anticonvulsants, MAO inhibitors, and certain antibiotics. It is important to check with a physician before taking Gatomen with any other medications.

Disease Interactions

People with Alzheimer's disease, stroke, kidney disease, depression, and certain other conditions should not take Gatomen. People with these conditions should check with their doctor before using Gatomen.

Drug Interactions

Gatomen may interact with other medications and substances, such as nicotine, coffee, and certain vitamins and minerals. It is important to check with a physician before taking Gatomen with any other medications or substances.

Food Interactions

It is important to take Gatomen at least one hour before or two hours after eating. Certain foods may interact with Gatomen, such as dairy products, high-fat meals, and iron supplements. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid these foods and supplements when taking Gatomen.

Pregnancy Use

Gatomen is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Women should consult with their health care provider before taking Gatomen while pregnant.

Lactation Use

It is not known if Gatomen passes into breast milk. Women should consult with their health care provider before taking Gatomen while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

Symptoms of an acute overdose of Gatomen may include drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, and seizures. Treatment for an overdose of Gatomen may include supportive care and/or administration of activated charcoal to reduce absorption.

Contraindications

Gatomen is contraindicated in people with severe kidney disease, as it may increase the risk of adverse effects. Gatomen is also contraindicated in people with a history of stroke, as it may worsen their symptoms.

Dosing Instructions

The recommended starting dose of memantine is 5 mg twice daily. The dose can be increased to 10 mg twice daily after 1 week and, if needed, 20 mg twice daily after 2 weeks. The maximum recommended dose is 20 mg twice daily. Gatomen should be taken at least one hour before or two hours after eating.

Storage Conditions

Gatomen should be stored at room temperature, in a dry place away from light. Do not keep Gatomen in the refrigerator or freezer.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of Gatomen is 0.6L/kg. This indicates that Gatomen is found throughout the body, including in tissues.

Half-Life

The half-life of Gatomen is 36 hours. This indicates that it takes 36 hours for the level of Gatomen in the body to be reduced by 50%.

Clearance

Gatomen is primarily cleared by the kidneys. It is metabolized into active metabolites that are excreted unchanged in the urine.

Here you find in details version of Gatomen

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Gatomen

What is Gatomen?

Gatomen is a prescription medicine used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease. It is also used to treat certain types of pain, such as certain nerve pain and spasticity. It belongs to a class of drugs called N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists.

What are the side effects of Gatomen?

Common side effects of Gatomen include nausea, diarrhea, sleepiness, headache, confusion, dizziness, lost of appetite, constipation, muscle pain, and vomiting. Less common side effects include difficulty urinating, agitation, blurred vision, chest pain, decreased sexual interest, and swelling of the feet and ankles.

Can Gatomen be used to treat other conditions?

Gatomen can be used to treat certain types of pain, such as certain nerve pain and spasticity, but it is not approved by the FDA for any other indications.

Does Gatomen have any interaction with other drugs?

Yes, Gatomen can interact with certain drugs such as antidepressants, antihistamines, antibiotics, heartburn medications, and seizure medications. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medications.

Is Gatomen safe?

Yes, Gatomen is generally safe when taken as prescribed. However, some side effects may occur, so it is important to follow your doctor’s directions and read the medication guide to understand potential side effects.

Is Gatomen available in generic form?

Yes, Gatomen is available in generic form. It is important to talk with your doctor or pharmacist about your specific medication and how to use it safely.

What is the recommended dosage of Gatomen?

The recommended dosage of Gatomen depends on your condition and age. Follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication guide carefully for the recommended dosage.

How long does it take for Gatomen to work?

It typically takes several weeks for Gatomen to start working. Your doctor may adjust your dose depending on your response to the medicine.

Can Gatomen be taken with food?

Yes, Gatomen can be taken with food. However, it is best to take it at the same time every day.

Can Gatomen cause weight gain?

Yes, weight gain is a possible side effect of Gatomen. Talk to your doctor if you experience rapid weight gain while taking this medication.

Can Gatomen be used during pregnancy?

No, Gatomen should not be used during pregnancy, unless your doctor has determined that the benefits outweigh the risks. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy.

Can Gatomen be taken with other drugs for Alzheimer's?

Yes, Gatomen can be taken with other drugs for Alzheimer's. However, some medications may interact with each other, so it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any other medication.

What should I avoid while taking Gatomen?

While taking Gatomen, you should avoid drinking alcohol, driving, or operating machinery until you know how this drug affects you. You should also avoid activities that require careful attention. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness while taking this medication, avoid these activities.

Can I overdose on Gatomen?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on Gatomen. If you or someone you know has overdosed on this medication, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Can I stop taking Gatomen on my own?

No, you should not stop taking Gatomen on your own. Talk to your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen.

What should I do if I am unable to find Gatomen?

If you are unable to find Gatomen at your local pharmacy, ask your doctor to call in a prescription or consider switching to a generic version of the medication.

Does Gatomen interact with other medical conditions?

Yes, Gatomen can interact with other medical conditions such as kidney failure, dementia, and seizure disorders. Talk to your doctor about any other medical conditions you have before taking this medication.

Can I take Gatomen if I have kidney problems?

Yes, you can take Gatomen if you have kidney problems, but your doctor may adjust your dose to reduce the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor about any other medical conditions you have before taking this medication.

Can I take Gatomen if I am taking other medications?

Yes, you can take Gatomen if you are taking other medications, but some medications may interact with each other. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medications while taking Gatomen.

Can I split a dose of Gatomen?

No, you should not split a dose of Gatomen. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the proper dosage for your condition.

Are there any special storage instructions for Gatomen?

Yes, it is important to store Gatomen at room temperature away from light and moisture. Talk to your pharmacist for more information.

Is there a generic version of Gatomen available?

Yes, there is a generic version of Gatomen available. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your specific medication and how to use it safely.

Does Gatomen come in a liquid form?

No, Gatomen does not come in a liquid form. It is available as a tablet, capsule, and solution.

What are the common side effects of Gatomen?

Common side effects of Gatomen include nausea, diarrhea, sleepiness, headache, confusion, dizziness, lost of appetite, constipation, muscle pain, and vomiting.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Gatomen?

No, you should not drink alcohol while taking Gatomen. Alcohol may increase the risk of side effects and can interact with this medication.

Can I take Gatomen if I am breastfeeding?

No, Gatomen should not be taken while breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk and cause serious harm to a nursing infant. Talk to your doctor before taking any medication while breastfeeding.

Is Gatomen used to treat depression?

No, Gatomen is not used to treat depression. It is used to treat Alzheimer's disease and certain types of pain such as nerve pain and spasticity.

Can I take Gatomen if I'm allergic to peanuts?

Yes, it is possible to take Gatomen if you are allergic to peanuts. But you should check with your doctor to make sure that the medication does not contain ingredients that can cause an allergic reaction.

Does Gatomen help with dementia?

Yes, Gatomen can help slow the progression of dementia symptoms in some people. Talk to your doctor to discuss whether this medication is right for you.

Does taking Gatomen cause memory loss?

No, taking Gatomen does not cause memory loss. In fact, it can help slow the progression of memory loss associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Is there an over-the-counter version of Gatomen?

No, Gatomen is a prescription medication and is not available over-the-counter.

How quickly does Gatomen start working?

It typically takes several weeks for Gatomen to start working. Your doctor may adjust your dose depending on your response to the medicine.

Does Gatomen have any long-term side effects?

Yes, long-term side effects of Gatomen may include confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, constipation, and headache. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any of these side effects.

Does Gatomen cause insomnia?

Yes, insomnia is a possible side effect of Gatomen. Talk to your doctor if you experience difficulty sleeping while taking this medication.

Can I take herbal supplements while taking Gatomen?

No, you should not take herbal supplements while taking Gatomen. Some herbal supplements may interact with this medication and cause serious side effects.

Can I take Gatomen if I have a history of stroke?

Yes, you can take Gatomen if you have a history of stroke, but your doctor may adjust your dose to reduce the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor before taking any medication.

What should I do if I forget to take my dose of Gatomen?

If you forget to take a dose of Gatomen, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at your regular time.

Can I take Gatomen if I am pregnant?

No, Gatomen should not be used during pregnancy, unless your doctor has determined that the benefits outweigh the risks. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy.

Can I take Gatomen if I have heart problems?

Yes, you can take Gatomen if you have heart problems, but your doctor may adjust your dose to reduce the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor about any other medical conditions you have before taking this medication.

What is the difference between Gatomen and Cholinesterase inhibitors?

Gatomen is a N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease, while Cholinesterase inhibitors are used to treat mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. Talk to your doctor to determine which medication is right for you.