Dangers of Namenda

Namenda is a brand name for the drug memantine. Namenda is an Alzheimer’s medication. Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that interferes with the brain’s proper functioning. Namenda may help control symptoms of Alzheimer’s by rendering some of the brain’s chemicals less effective. Namenda is a prescription medication that may cause some side effects. It also has the potential to interact with other drugs and pre-existing medical conditions. Before deciding to use Namenda, thoroughly explore the possible risks and benefits.

Side Effects

• Namenda may cause some side effects. Some of the milder side effects may include joint pain, weight loss, anxiety, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, swelling of the hands or feet, weakness, dizziness, fatigue, swelling around the eyes, frequent urination, aggression, constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite and being easy to bruise or bleed. Some of the more serious side effects may include hallucinations, seizures, confusion, sudden numbness, chest tightness, problems breathing, fever, fainting, blurred vision, lack of coordination and less-frequent urination. If you experience serious side effects, you’ll need emergency medical help.

Interactions

• Namenda may interact with other prescription drugs or over-the-counter medications. This list includes nicotine, cimetidine, quinidine, ranitidine, antiviral drugs, cold medication containing dextromethorphan, sodium bicarbonate, diuretics, diabetes medications and glaucoma medications. Before using Namenda, ask your doctor whether it will interact with any of your current medications.

Pre-existing Conditions

• Namenda is classified by the FDA to be in the pregnancy category B, according to Drugs.com. This means it isn’t expected to harm a fetus, but it is unknown if it will pass through breast milk. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant or are breastfeeding. You may be unable to take Namenda with other pre-existing conditions. This list includes cataracts, seizure disorder, kidney disease, liver disease or an infection of the bladder or kidney. For your safety, discuss your complete medical history with your doctor.