Generic name: donepezil and memantine [ doe-NEP-e-zil-and-mem-AN-teen ]
Drug class: Cholinesterase inhibitors

Medically reviewed by Kaci Durbin, MD. Last updated on Apr 22, 2024.

What is Namzaric?

Namzaric contains a combination of donepezil and memantine. Donepezil improves the function of nerve cells in the brain. It works by preventing the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine. People with dementia usually have lower levels of this chemical, which is important for the processes of memory, thinking, and reasoning. Memantine reduces the actions of chemicals in the brain that may contribute to the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

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

Namzaric is not a cure for Alzheimer's disease. This condition will progress over time.

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.

Namzaric could affect some of the medications used in general anesthesia. Make sure you tell your doctor you are taking Namzaric if you need surgery or dental work.

Namzaric can lead to heart problems, including a slow heart rate. Call your doctor immediately if you have chest pain, trouble breathing, or if you feel unusually tired, short of breath, or dizzy, like you might faint.

Namzaric can lead to bleeding in the stomach or intestines. Call your doctor immediately if you notice dark or tarry stools or vomit that is blood-tinged or looks like coffee grounds.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Namzaric if you are allergic to donepezil or memantine.

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

• asthma or other breathing disorder;

• heart disease, or heart rhythm disorder;

• a history of seizures;

• stomach ulcer, or a history of stomach or intestinal bleeding;

• bladder obstruction or other urination problems;

• liver disease; or

• kidney disease.

It is not known whether Namzaric will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

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

Related/similar drugs

Aricept, Leqembi, donepezil, memantine, Namenda, rivastigmine, Exelon

How should I take Namzaric?

Take Namzaric exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Take Namzaric at bedtime unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

You may take Namzaric with or without food.

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

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

Do not use a broken or damaged capsule.

If you need surgery or dental work, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using Namzaric. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

You should not stop using Namzaric suddenly. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.

Store Namzaric at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

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.

What happens if I overdose?

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

Overdose symptoms may include severe dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, trouble walking, slow or fast heart rate, sweating, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior, weak or shallow breathing, fainting, or seizure.

What to avoid

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Namzaric side effects

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

Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe or ongoing vomiting;

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

• slow heartbeats or chest pain;

• seizure (convulsions);

• painful or difficult urination;

• new or worsening breathing problems; or

• signs of stomach bleeding - severe heartburn or stomach pain, bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

Common Namzaric side effects may include:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite;

• headache;

• dizziness; or

• easy bruising.

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.

What other drugs will affect Namzaric?

Many drugs can interact with Namzaric. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using, especially:

• Parkinson’s disease drugs including amantadine;

• ketamine;

• over-the-counter cough and cold medication including dextromethorphan;

• antifungal medication (ketoconazole, others);

• seizure medications (phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, others);

• rifampin;

• steroids, including dexamethasone;

• medications for urge urinary incontinence;

• other medications called anti-cholinergics, including medication to treat excess stomach acid, stomach ulcer, motion sickness, nausea and vomiting, or irritable bowel syndrome.

Other drugs may interact with donepezil and memantine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

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

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

Medical Disclaimer

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