Articles
Alzheimer's: Medicines help manage symptoms and slow decline
Role of current Alzheimer's drugs
Memantine for later stages
When to discontinue Alzheimer's drugs
Content
FDA-approved medicines for treating symptoms
Goals for treating symptoms
Cholinesterase inhibitors
Memantine
Medicine for agitation
Antiamyloid treatment
Understanding risks
Imaging and other tests
Memantine for later stages
When to discontinue Alzheimer's drugs
Content
FDA-approved medicines for treating symptoms
Goals for treating symptoms
Cholinesterase inhibitors
Memantine
Medicine for agitation
Antiamyloid treatment
Understanding risks
Imaging and other tests
Memantine for later stages
Memantine (Namenda) is approved by the FDA for treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. It works by regulating the activity of glutamate, a messenger chemical widely involved in brain functions — including learning and memory. It's taken as a pill or syrup. Common side effects include dizziness, headache, confusion and agitation.
The FDA has also approved a combination of donepezil and memantine (Namzaric), which is taken as a capsule. Side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea and diarrhea.
