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Namenda XR

Generic name: memantinemeh-MAN-teen ]
Brand names: Namenda, Namenda XR
Drug class: Miscellaneous central nervous system agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 14, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Namenda XR?

Namenda XR reduces the actions of chemicals in the brain that may contribute to the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

Namenda XR is used to treat moderate to severe dementia of the Alzheimer's type.

Namenda XR may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Namenda XR side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Namenda XR may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of Namenda XR may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Namenda XR if you are allergic to it.

To make sure Namenda XR is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

Namenda XR is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known whether memantine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Namenda XR?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Namenda XR can be taken with or without food.

Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release capsule. Swallow it whole.

To make swallowing easier, you may open the extended-release capsule and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of applesauce. Swallow right away without chewing. Do not save the mixture for later use.

Measure liquid medicine (oral solution) with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Do not mix the oral solution with any other liquids.

Rinse the empty oral syringe with clean water and allow it to air dry after every use.

Use Namenda XR regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Your doctor will need to check your progress while you are using Namenda XR.

Store Namenda XR at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the liquid medicine bottle tightly closed with the cap provided. Do not store the bottle with the oral syringe in it.

Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets provided to you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

If you miss doses or forget to take your medicine for several days, call your doctor before starting the medicine again.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking Namenda XR?

Namenda XR can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

What other drugs will affect Namenda XR?

Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using, especially:

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with memantine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.