Drug Detail:Memantine (Memantine [ meh-man-teen ])
Generic Name: Memantine Extended-Release Capsules [ me-MAN-teen ]
Drug Class: Miscellaneous central nervous system agents
Uses of Memantine Extended-Release Capsules:
- It is used to treat dementia in people with Alzheimer's disease.
What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Memantine Extended-Release Capsules?
- If you are allergic to this medicine (memantine extended-release capsules); any part of this medicine (memantine extended-release capsules); or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.
This medicine may interact with other drugs or health problems.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take this medicine (memantine extended-release capsules) with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.
What are some things I need to know or do while I take Memantine Extended-Release Capsules?
- Tell all of your health care providers that you take this medicine (memantine extended-release capsules). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.
How is this medicine (Memantine Extended-Release Capsules) best taken?
Use this medicine (memantine extended-release capsules) as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.
- Take with or without food.
- Keep taking this medicine (memantine extended-release capsules) as you have been told by your doctor or other health care provider, even if you feel well.
- Swallow whole. Do not chew or crush.
- Do not take any capsules that do not look normal or are damaged.
- If you cannot swallow this medicine (memantine extended-release capsules) whole, you may sprinkle the contents on applesauce. If you do this, swallow the mixture right away without chewing.
What do I do if I miss a dose?
- Skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time.
- Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
- If you miss taking this medicine (memantine extended-release capsules) for a few days in a row, call your doctor before you start taking it again.
Related/similar drugs
donepezil, memantine, Aricept, Namenda, rivastigmine, ExelonWhat are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?
WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- Feeling confused.
What are some other side effects of Memantine Extended-Release Capsules?
All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:
- Dizziness.
- Headache.
- Diarrhea or constipation.
These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
If OVERDOSE is suspected:
If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.
How do I store and/or throw out Memantine Extended-Release Capsules?
- Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.
- Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
- Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
- If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor.
- Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else's drugs.
- Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about this medicine (memantine extended-release capsules), please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
- If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.