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Memantine is used to treat moderate to severe confusion (dementia) related to Alzheimer's disease. It does not cure Alzheimer's disease, but it may improve memory, awareness, and the ability to perform daily functions. This medication works by blocking the action of a certain natural substance in the brain (glutamate) that is believed to be linked to symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
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| Overview |
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How To Use |
Side Effects |
Precautions |
Missed Dose |
Drug Interactions |
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Memantine
Uses
Memantine is used to treat moderate to severe confusion (dementia) related to Alzheimer's disease. It does not cure Alzheimer's disease, but it may improve memory, awareness, and the ability to perform daily functions. This medication works by blocking the action of a certain natural substance in the brain (glutamate) that is believed to be linked to symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
Notes
- Do not share this medication with others.
Storage
- Store at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
- Brief storage between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) is permitted.
- Do not store in the bathroom.
- Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
Overdose
- Symptoms of overdose may include restlessness, personality change, hallucinations, drowsiness, or loss of consciousness.
How To Use
- Take this medication by mouth, with or without food.
- When you first start taking this medication, you will usually take it once daily.
- Your dose will be gradually increased to lower the risk of side effects.
- Once your dose increases to more than 5 milligrams per day, take this medication twice daily or as directed by your doctor.If you are taking memantine oral liquid, read the manufacturer's instruction sheet that comes with the bottle.
- Follow the directions exactly.
- Use the oral syringe that comes with the product to measure out your dose.
- Swallow the medication directly from the syringe.
- Do not mix it with water or other liquids.
- Rinse the syringe with water after each use.
- Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it.
- Do not stop taking it or increase the dosage unless your doctor instructs you to do so.Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.
Side Effects
- Tiredness, body aches, dizziness, constipation, and headache may occur.
- If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
- Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs.
- Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before taking memantine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to propylene glycol; or if you have any other allergies.This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions.
- Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: severe kidney disease.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, severe liver disease, severe urinary tract infections, recent dietary change (from a high-protein diet to a vegetarian diet).This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery.
- Limit alcoholic beverages.This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
- Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk.
- Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Missed Dose
- If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
- If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
- Do not double the dose to catch up.
Drug Interactions
- Your healthcare professionals (e.g., doctor or pharmacist) may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for it.
- Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: amantadine, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., acetazolamide, methazolamide), ketamine, sodium bicarbonate.Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough and cold products) because they may contain dextromethorphan, which may increase your risk of side effects when taken with memantine.
- Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of those products.
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
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