Memantine (Ebixa)

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What is Memantine used for?

Memantine HCL (hydrochloride) is an anti-dementia medication. It works improving the transmission of the nerve signals related to memory. The brain has, what’s known as, NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors in the brain that are essential for memory and the ability to learn. Memantine acts on these receptors to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease. Moderate Alzheimers is generally the longest stage of the disease with the loss of intellect, logic, behavior, and function. Severe Alzheimer’s disease causes a loss of long-term memory and language skills. Patients with severe Alzheimer’s may need around the clock care and can no longer complete daily tasks independently.
Memantine is used to treat symptoms of moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease.

Memantine (Ebixa) FAQs

How to use Memantine?

Always take this drug as counseled by your doctor. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions to make sure this is used optimally. Memantine is taken as an oral tablet with instructions on how many tablets a day as this can vary. Ideally you should take this at the same time every day on a consistent basis. The tablets can be taken with or without food. You are meant to take this medication as long as you benefit from it. Your treatment plan should be addressed by your doctor periodically. If you forget to take your daily dose simply skip it and take your next dose to get back on schedule. It’s not recommended for you to take a double dose. Your Memantine dosage depends on your treatment plan and your medical condition. Often people will begin with Memantine 10mg and make adjustments when necessary.

Memantine Side Effects?

  • dizziness
  • sleepiness
  • neuroleptic malignant syndrome fever, altered mental status, muscle rigidity and autonomic dysfunction)
  • Stevens-Johnson syndrome
  • fainting
  • blockage in the brain (cerebral infarction)
  • constipation
  • stroke (cerebrovascular accident)
  • deep venous thrombosis
  • backache
  • seizure (including grand mal)
  • pain
  • shortness of breath
  • disruption of blood supply to the brain or eye (transient ischemic attack, or mini-stroke)
  • cough
  • hepatitis, liver failure
  • confusion
  • headache
  • vomiting
  • high blood pressure (hypertension)
  • fatigue
  • intracranial hemorrhage
  • acute kidney failure

This is not an exhaustive list of potential side effects when taking Memantine. Be sure to make sure you are aware of these when consulting with a doctor or pharmacist

What are Drug Interactions of Memantine?

  • pramipexole
  • hydrochlorothiazide
  • digoxin
  • metformin
  • sulfamethoxazole
  • dextromethorphan
  • acetazolamide
  • trimethoprim
  • vandetanib
  • ranitidine
  • diltiazem
  • cimetidine
  • calcium carbonate
  • quinidine
  • amiodarone
  • quinine
  • midodrine
  • procainamide
  • ketamine
  • sodium bicarbonate
  • dofetilide
  • tenofovir DF
  • amantadine
  • triamterene
  • ofloxacin
  • verapamil
  • methyclothiazide
  • sodium citrate/citric acid
  • aluminum hydroxide
  • sodium lactate

There may be more interactions with this drug that are not included in this list. Be sure to go over your medications with your doctor or pharmacist before you begin taking this medication.

Should Memantine Be Taken At Night?

There is no preferred time of day to take this. Taking this medication consistently around the same time every day is what is most important.

How does Memantine work?

Memantine is called a NMDA receptor antagonist. It works by improving the connection of NMDA receptors to improve memory and learning.

Can you take Donepezil and Memantine together ?

These can be used in tandem to treat dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Consult your doctor to determine if taking these together will benefit you.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this page is to provide basic information on this product and is not intended to substitute medical advice from a licensed doctor. Always make sure to consult with a doctor before ordering medication online from Canada. Do not avoid or delay seeing a healthcare provider based on what you read here.