Taking On Moderate to Severe
Alzheimer's Disease

Taking NAMENDA XR^®

If you think NAMENDA XR^® (memantine hydrochloride) may be right for your loved one, talk to your doctor about NAMENDA XR.

NAMENDA XR: Convenient Once‑Daily Dosing for Patients

• NAMENDA XR should be taken every day. It can be taken with or without food at any time of the day.
• NAMENDA XR capsules can be opened and sprinkled on applesauce.
• NAMENDA XR capsules should be swallowed whole. They should not be divided, crushed, or chewed.
• NAMENDA XR must be taken as prescribed by the healthcare provider.

• What Should Be Discussed With the Healthcare Provider Before Taking NAMENDA XR?
• What Can I Expect From Treatment With Once-a-Day NAMENDA XR?
• Who Should NOT Take NAMENDA XR?
• What Are the Possible Side Effects of NAMENDA XR?
• What If My Loved One Misses a Dose of NAMENDA XR?
• What Other Help Is Available?

What Should Be Discussed With the Healthcare Provider Before Taking NAMENDA XR?

Before starting NAMENDA XR talk to the healthcare provider about all of the patient's past and present medical conditions, including:

• Seizure disorders
• Difficulty passing urine
• Liver or kidney problems

If the patient is taking other medications (including those without a prescription), ask the healthcare provider if NAMENDA XR is right for the patient.

• Certain medications, changes in diet, or medical conditions may affect the amount of NAMENDA XR in the body and possibly increase side effects.

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What Can I Expect From Treatment With Once-a-Day NAMENDA XR?

Remember that it takes time for any treatment to begin working. When patients are treated with Alzheimer's disease medications, you may see one of the following. Symptoms will:

• Progress more slowly
• Remain the same for a period of time
• Show some improvement for a period of time

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Who Should NOT Take NAMENDA XR?

NAMENDA XR should not be taken by anyone who is allergic (hypersensitive) to memantine, the active substance in NAMENDA XR, or who has had a bad reaction to NAMENDA XR or any of its ingredients.

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What Are the Possible Side Effects of NAMENDA XR?

The most common side effects associated with NAMENDA XR treatment are headache, diarrhea, and dizziness. This is not a complete list of side effects.

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What if My Loved One Misses a Dose of NAMENDA XR?

If your loved one skips a dose of NAMENDA XR, do not double up on the next dose. Take only the next dose as scheduled. If the person you care for has forgotten to take NAMENDA XR for several days, do not administer the next dose until you have talked to the healthcare provider.

If you're having a hard time getting your loved one to take his or her medication, speak to the healthcare provider for advice.

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What Other Help Is Available?

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, seniors covered by Medicare can have an annual wellness visit with no out-of-pocket costs. This includes a review of their:

• Ability to do everyday tasks
• Level of safety
• Mental status, including speech, memory, and behavior
• Current medications

For those eligible for Medicare, the Medicare wellness visit is a chance for you and the healthcare provider to create or update a plan for your loved one at no cost. Ask the healthcare provider for more details.

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