Namenda XR Works in Your Brain

Namenda XR is a once-a-day extended release formula medication prescribed as 1 of 2 drugs approved to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s related dementia. Classed as a glutamate pathway modifier, Namenda XR works to control the irregular activity of glutamate in your brain.

Glutamate is an important neurotransmitter that acts to help electrical signaling between your nerve cells in your brain and plays a key role in learning and memory . If glutamate levels become too high, they basically jam a nerve cell open. This allows calcium to flow freely into the cell, causing damage to the cell’s structure and DNA and can spread to neighboring cells.

How Namenda XR Helps Reduce Dementia Symptoms

Namenda XR blocks the excess activity of glutamate that are being released from damaged cells which in turn, results in continual overexposure to calcium that causes damage to cells to speed up. By taking Namenda XR as directed, this destructive chain of events is averted and the symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease are decreased. It may be recommended that you take Namenda XR with another medication that works well with glutamate pathway modifiers.

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Related Dementia

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease with worsening symptoms of dementia as time goes on. Memory loss is usually the first indication of Alzheimer’s disease. This can start as simple forgetfulness in recalling dates or events, and gradually lead to leaving notes or relying on family for reminders of things, such as doctor appointments. Routine tasks may become difficult and they may forget where they are. A good support system with friends, family, and a primary caregiver is important for the one with Alzheimer’s disease, especially as this disease progresses.

Before You Take Namenda XR

Make sure your doctor is aware of your medical history and any OTC or Rx medications you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and vitamin or dietary supplements. Combining some meds with Namenda XR can cause unwanted side effects or change how it will affect your body. If swallowing capsules is difficult, open the capsule and sprinkle it on a spoonful of applesauce then swallow the entire amount.

Important to Note

You should not start, stop, or change the dosage of any of your medications without your doctor’s knowledge. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Namenda XR as this could increase certain side effects. All of your medications should be kept out of children’s reach and away from pets.

Possible Side Effects of Namenda XR

• Constipation or diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Weight loss

Drugs Similar to Namenda XR

• Razadyne ER
• Aricept
• Exelon