The Importance of Staying on Namenda: Treating the Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease

To help treat the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, Namenda^® (memantine HCl)* has to be taken every day according to your doctor's prescription. However, people with Alzheimer's disease, especially those who are already taking many medications for other medical conditions, may be resistant to taking their Alzheimer's medication. The following strategies may help ensure compliance and make staying on Namenda easier and less stressful for everyone involved.

Tips for Sticking with Treatment

• Give the patients their Alzheimer's medication on a set schedule – perhaps after breakfast and dinner – to ensure consistency.
• Stay calm, use a soothing voice and try to engage in pleasant conversation with the person with Alzheimer's disease.
• Rub the patient's back or hold their hand – skin-to-skin contact is calming and may be effective in getting the patient to cooperate.
• For people with Alzheimer's disease who have difficulty swallowing pills, you may want to consider using the liquid form of Namenda.

As with all types of prescription medication, do not stop taking Namenda without first talking to a doctor.