NAMENDA XR® (memantine hydrochloride) extended-release capsules are approved for the treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. NAMENDA XR is available by prescription only.
Alzheimer's Disease:
Symptom Progression
What Is Alzheimer's Disease?
Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. It is a progressive disease. This means it gets worse over time and continues to progress for the rest of a person's life. That's why it is important to recognize the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease sooner rather than later and discuss treatment options with a healthcare provider.
How Does Alzheimer's Disease Progress?
In the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, memory loss may be mild. Symptoms in this stage may include getting confused in familiar places and taking longer than usual to complete normal daily tasks. The disease progresses at different rates in different people. Generally, patients with moderate Alzheimer's disease experience the fastest rate of decline. As a caregiver, you know the person you're caring for better than anyone. Tell the healthcare provider if you notice any changes in symptoms. As the disease progresses, the healthcare provider might talk about the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease as occurring in the moderate and severe stages.
What Are the Symptoms of the Moderate and Severe Stages of Alzheimer's Disease?
As symptoms progress — or worsen — your loved one will move through different stages of the disease. The table below provides examples of the symptoms of the moderate and severe stages.
MODERATE StageSigns and symptoms of moderate Alzheimer's disease may include: |
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SEVERE StageSigns and symptoms of severe Alzheimer's disease may include: |
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Caregiver Tip:
Tell the healthcare provider about any changes you notice right when they start to happen. This way, you can work with the healthcare provider to make better informed decisions.
There is no evidence that NAMENDA XR prevents or slows the underlying disease process in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Important Risk Information
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.
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.
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.
Please see full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information.
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Important Risk Information
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.
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.
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.
Please see full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information.
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WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.