Namenda XR (Memantine)

Do’s

• Before starting Namenda XR, read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. This leaflet contains important information about the medication and its usage.
• Namenda XR should be taken by mouth with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. It is usually taken once daily.
• The capsules should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed or chewed. Crushing or chewing the capsules can release all of the drugs at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
• If you have trouble swallowing the capsules whole, you may open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on applesauce. Swallow the entire mixture without chewing. 
• The dosage of Namenda XR is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it to reduce the risk of side effects. Follow their instructions carefully.
• If you are switching from another form of memantine to the extended-release form (Namenda XR), follow your healthcare provider's instructions.
• To ensure the most benefit from Namenda XR, take it at the same time each day.
• If your condition worsens while taking Namenda XR, inform your healthcare provider.

Don’ts

• Do not prepare a supply in advance.
• Do not switch forms without consulting your healthcare provider first.

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Fatigue
• Agitation
• Hallucinations
• Increased blood pressure

Seek medical attention if you experience any severe or persistent side effects.

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and other side effects may occur. For a comprehensive list of side effects, consult the prescribing information or package insert of Namenda XR.

Seek emergency medical help if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Namenda XR may interact with other drugs you are taking. Consult with a healthcare provider to check for potential interactions.

The safety of Namenda XR during pregnancy has not been established. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

It is not known if Namenda XR passes into breast milk. Consult with your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while taking this medication.

Inform your healthcare provider if you have any kidney problems, as the dosage of Namenda XR may need to be adjusted.

If you have a severe urinary tract infection, it may affect the elimination of Namenda XR from your body. This can result in increased levels of the medication in your bloodstream.

Namenda XR may cause dizziness. Take precautions while driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

This is not an exhaustive list of warnings and precautions. For a comprehensive understanding of the warnings and precautions associated with Namenda XR, consult the prescribing information or package insert of the medication.