• Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Bart
  
  

Dosing

• Memantine is available in 5mg or 10mg tablets that are taken once or twice per day.
  
  

Function

• Memantine helps slow the rate of progression of Alzheimer's disease by binding to NMDA receptors in the brain. This helps decrease levels of glutamate, which is believed to be a cause of cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease.
  
  

Interactions

• Memantine may interact with amantadine, quinidine, dextromethorphan (an over-the-counter cough suppressant), ulcer drugs and diuretics. Discuss all of your current medications with your physician and pharmacist prior to taking memantine.
  
  

Side Effects

• Common side effects include fainting, changes in cardiovascular functioning, vertigo, ataxia, anemia, agitation, development of a skin rash and weight loss.
  
  

Considerations

• Additional monitoring of dosage is necessary for patients with severe liver or kidney disease. Caution is advised when taking memantine during pregnancy, since the risks are not known.