Namenda

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

What is Namenda?

Namenda 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 Namenda

Namenda 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

Namenda 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 Namenda 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

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

Route of Elimination

Namenda 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

Namenda is usually taken orally. The tablets should be swallowed with a glass of water. Namenda 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

Namenda 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

Namenda 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

Namenda 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 Namenda with any other medications.

Disease Interactions

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

Drug Interactions

Namenda 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 Namenda with any other medications or substances.

Food Interactions

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

Pregnancy Use

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

Lactation Use

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

Acute Overdose

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

Contraindications

Namenda is contraindicated in people with severe kidney disease, as it may increase the risk of adverse effects. Namenda 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. Namenda should be taken at least one hour before or two hours after eating.

Storage Conditions

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

Volume of Distribution

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

Half-Life

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

Clearance

Namenda 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 Namenda

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Namenda

What is Namenda?

Namenda 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 Namenda?

Common side effects of Namenda 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 Namenda be used to treat other conditions?

Namenda 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 Namenda have any interaction with other drugs?

Yes, Namenda 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 Namenda safe?

Yes, Namenda 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 Namenda available in generic form?

Yes, Namenda 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 Namenda?

The recommended dosage of Namenda 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 Namenda to work?

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

Can Namenda be taken with food?

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

Can Namenda cause weight gain?

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

Can Namenda be used during pregnancy?

No, Namenda 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 Namenda be taken with other drugs for Alzheimer's?

Yes, Namenda 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 Namenda?

While taking Namenda, 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 Namenda?

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

Can I stop taking Namenda on my own?

No, you should not stop taking Namenda 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 Namenda?

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

Does Namenda interact with other medical conditions?

Yes, Namenda 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 Namenda if I have kidney problems?

Yes, you can take Namenda 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 Namenda if I am taking other medications?

Yes, you can take Namenda 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 Namenda.

Can I split a dose of Namenda?

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

Are there any special storage instructions for Namenda?

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

Is there a generic version of Namenda available?

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

Does Namenda come in a liquid form?

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

What are the common side effects of Namenda?

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

Can I drink alcohol while taking Namenda?

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

Can I take Namenda if I am breastfeeding?

No, Namenda 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 Namenda used to treat depression?

No, Namenda 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 Namenda if I'm allergic to peanuts?

Yes, it is possible to take Namenda 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 Namenda help with dementia?

Yes, Namenda 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 Namenda cause memory loss?

No, taking Namenda 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 Namenda?

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

How quickly does Namenda start working?

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

Does Namenda have any long-term side effects?

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

Does Namenda cause insomnia?

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

Can I take herbal supplements while taking Namenda?

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

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

Yes, you can take Namenda 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 Namenda?

If you forget to take a dose of Namenda, 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 Namenda if I am pregnant?

No, Namenda 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 Namenda if I have heart problems?

Yes, you can take Namenda 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 Namenda and Cholinesterase inhibitors?

Namenda 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.