Namenda® (memantine HCl)* is well tolerated by people with Alzheimer's disease and there is a low risk for drug interactions. 17 It's understandable, however, to be concerned when starting a new medication, especially because people suffering from Alzheimer's disease are often taking medications for other types of conditions.
Namenda is easy to start and easy to stay with, because:
- Namenda can be taken with or without food
- Namenda is available in tablets and liquid, for those who have difficulty swallowing tablets or prefer liquid
- A convenient Titration Pak can be prescribed to make it easy to start Namenda.
Therapy begins at a low dose (5 mg per day) and is gradually increased until the target dose (10 mg, two times a day) is reached. The Titration Pak will help guide the first four weeks of therapy, gradually increasing the Alzheimer's medication to the maintenance dosage. The doctor will write a follow–up prescription so that Namenda can be taken at the daily maintenance dosage of 10 mg. twice a day. (For patients with severe renal impairment, 5 mg. twice a day is the recommended dose.) 17
Tips for Administering Namenda
Namenda has been shown to slow the progression of Alzheimer's symptoms, but the medication must be taken according to the prescribed schedule (see below) for effective results. People with Alzheimer's disease, however, especially those who are already taking many medications for various medical conditions, may be resistant to taking their Alzheimer's medicine.
The following strategies may help Alzheimer's caregivers ensure compliance and make the process of administering Namenda easier and less stressful for everyone involved.
- 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.
- Consider using the liquid form of Namenda to mix into a drink.
Do not stop taking Namenda without first talking to a doctor.
With a low rate of side effects, Namenda is unique, proven effective, and easy to take. Talk with the doctor if you have any questions about starting or taking Namenda.
