Namenda is an oral medication used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer’s. Namenda reduces the actions of brain chemicals that contribute to the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s is caused by damage to the nerve cells in the brain, which leads to a decline in memory and learning.

How does Namenda work?

The brain relies on chemical messengers called neurotransmitters to pass signals between nerve cells. One neurotransmitter, glutamate, is involved with memory and learning. Dementia conditions occur when nerve cells are damaged, which causes the cells to release excess glutamate. This glutamate causes too much calcium to enter cells, which causes more damage to the memory and learning process. Namenda works by blocking glutamate from accessing important brain receptors and preventing excess calcium from entering cells to cause damage.

Always consult your doctor and the patient's instructions before taking this medication.

• Namenda can be taken with or without food. Do not crush, chew, or open the Namenda extended-release capsules. Swallow the pills whole.
• If you are taking the oral solution form of Namenda, rinse the syringe with clean water and allow it to dry. Do not mix the oral solution with any other liquids.
• Store Namenda at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Before taking Namenda, tell your doctor or pharmacist:

• If you are allergic to any drugs
• Have a seizure disorder
• Cataracts
• Liver or kidney disease
• Bladder or kidney infection
• Namenda may impair your thinking or reactions, so be careful participating in activities that require you to be alert.
• Namenda is not expected to harm an unborn baby, but tell your doctor if you are pregnant before taking this medication.

Common side effects of Namenda include but are not limited to:

• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Headache

Some more serious side effects can include:

• Unusual changes in mood or behavior
• Seizure
• Severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in the neck or ears

Does Namenda interact with any other drugs?

Always tell your doctor about your current medications. Tell your doctor if you are taking:

• Amantadine
• Zonisamide
• Cough medicine with dextromethorphan
• Medicine to treat glaucoma

What is the dosage of Namenda?

There are immediate-release tablets that vary from 5mg to a maximum of 20mg a day. The extended-release tablets range from 7mg to a maximum of 28mg a day. Your doctor will determine your dose based on your condition.