Axura (Memantine)
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
For Alzheimer's disease where it improves the central nervous system function and cognitive potential, improves concentration, reduces early tiredness, and improves vigilance. To reach the maximum effect it often takes 2-3 weeks.
Side Effects
In general Axura is well tolerated. Certain dose-related side-effects have been described: hallucinations, nausea, dizziness, tiredness, headache, nervousness, and increased incidence of bladder inflammations.
Drug Interactions
(please inform your physician or pharmacist, if you take any other drugs) Among those are barbiturates, neuroleptics, diuretics like HCTZ, anticholinergic drugs, dextromethorphan, cimetidine, ranitidine, procainamide, quinidine, quinine, L-DOPA, and dopaminergic agonists, (like BROMOCRIPTINE or AMANTIDINE) which might increase or decrease side-effects. Dantrol or baclofen might be reduced in their effectiveness when AXURA is added to therapy.
Cautions and Contraindications
Memantine may lower seizure threshold and should be used in patients with a history of seizures only with extreme caution.
Patients with a recent myocardial infarction and/or heart failure, or non-treated high blood pressure should be observed closely for side effects or a change in their medical status. In case of renal insufficiency dosage reduction may be indicated. NMDA antagonists, such as amantadine, ketamine, or dextromethorphan should not be used at the same time as memantine.
Usual Dose
Memantine is only available as a 10 mg tablet. Initially, 5 mg (1/2 tablet) daily in the morning for 7 days, then 1 tablet for 7 days and then 2 tablets thereafter. Some individuals may require 30-40 mg (3-4 tablets) for maximum therapeutic effect. The dose should be taken either upon arising, or if divided doses upon arising and before 2 pm to avoid any problems with agitation in the evening.
Note
This drug is not available in the USA. If you need further information, don't hesitate to contact us at any time: Phone: 1-866-367-7308 (pharmacist) or E-Mail: gbrown9@nc.rr.com.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.