Namenda XR (Memantine Hydrochloride Extended Release) is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. It helps improve memory, awareness, and the ability to perform daily activities in people with dementia related to Alzheimer's. While Namenda XR does not cure Alzheimer's, it may slow symptom progression and improve cognitive function and behavior in some patients. The active ingredient in Namenda XR is Memantine Hydrochloride Extended Release. Memantine Hydrochloride Extended Release belongs to a class of medications known as N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) Receptor Antagonists. It works by helping to protect brain cells from damage caused by an excess of a natural chemical called glutamate, which is involved in memory and learning. In Alzheimer's disease, too much glutamate overstimulates brain cells and can make symptoms worse. Namenda XR helps balance glutamate activity, allowing brain cells to communicate more normally and improving memory and thinking ability.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Namenda XR from the United States, manufactured by Allergan in the strength of 28 mg capsules. The generic Memantine Hydrochloride Extended Release is currently unavailable (at this pharmacy).
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Namenda XR. The most common side effects of Namenda XR may include the following:
• Back pain;
• Confusion;
• Constipation;
• Dizziness;
• Fatigue;
• Headache
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Seizures;
• Severe dizziness;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Signs of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, persistent nausea
These are not all of Namenda XR's side effects. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Namenda XR if you are allergic to Memantine Hydrochloride Extended Release or any ingredient in Namenda XR. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Have a history of heart failure;
• Have a seizure disorder;
• Have kidney problems;
• Have liver disease;
• Have urinary tract problems
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Namenda XR and other medicines, such as amantadine, acetazolamide, donepezil, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is unknown if this medicine can harm a fetus. Use only if the benefits outweigh the risks. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown if Memantine Hydrochloride is excreted in breast milk. Due to the potential risk of adverse effects in infants, breastfeeding is not recommended when taking Namenda XR.
Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes it. Namenda XR is available as capsules. Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break it. If you have problems swallowing, you may open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on a small amount of applesauce, then swallow immediately without chewing. Take the medication once daily, at the same time each day, with or without food. Continue taking Namenda XR even if you feel well; do not stop abruptly without consulting your doctor. This medication can cause dizziness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you. Stay hydrated when using this medicine, especially during illness or hot weather. Store this drug at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep out of the reach of children.