Namenda (memantine) is a prescription drug that’s taken to treat Alzheimer’s dementia. The drug comes as an oral tablet that you usually take once or twice daily.
Namenda is prescribed for adults to treat symptoms of moderate to severe Alzheimer’s dementia.
The active ingredient in Namenda is memantine. Namenda
This article describes the dosages of Namenda’s oral tablet, as well as its strengths and how to take it. (The oral solution and extended-release capsule are no longer available.) To learn more about Namenda, see this in-depth article.
Note: As a person’s condition progresses, they may need help reading or understanding certain information about their treatment plan. This article contains details that may help caregivers learn more about key aspects of Namenda.
This section describes the usual dosages of Namenda. Keep reading to learn more.
What is Namenda’s form?
Namenda comes in an oral tablet.
What strengths does Namenda come in?
Namenda comes in two strengths: 5 milligrams (mg) and 10 mg.
What is the usual dosage of Namenda?
Your doctor likely will start by prescribing a low dosage and adjust it over time to reach the right amount for you. They’ll ultimately prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.
The information below describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs.
In some cases, doctors may adjust your dosage from those shown below.
Dosage for moderate to severe Alzheimer’s dementia
To help minimize the side effects of Namenda, your doctor will start by prescribing a low dose. Then they’ll increase it slowly over several weeks. Your doctor may increase your dosage only if you have tolerated the previous dosage well.
The recommended dosing schedule for adults with Alzheimer’s dementia is shown in the table below. At week 4 and beyond, the typical dosage is 10 mg twice daily. This is also the recommended maximum dosage.
| Week | Dosage |
|---|---|
| 1 | •5 mg daily |
| 2 | • 5 mg twice daily |
| 3 | • 5 mg daily in the morning, and • 10 mg daily in the evening |
| 4 and beyond | • 10 mg twice daily |
How to take Namenda
You’ll swallow Namenda oral tablet as prescribed by your doctor. You can take the tablet with or without food.
If you have difficulty swallowing tablets, you may crush or chew Namenda tablets.
Is Namenda taken long term?
Yes, Namenda is usually taken as a long-term treatment. You and your doctor can determine whether it’s safe and effective for your condition. If you agree that it is, you’ll likely take it long term.
Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about Namenda’s dosage.
Can Namenda be taken for depression? If so, what’s the dosage?
Namenda is not approved for treating depression. But in rare cases, doctors prescribe it off-label for this use. (With off-label use, doctors prescribe a drug for a purpose other than what it’s approved to treat or help prevent.)
Because Namenda isn’t approved for depression, the drugmaker doesn’t provide recommended dosages for this use. Your doctor will prescribe the dosage that’s right for you.
To learn more about your treatment options for depression, talk with your doctor.
What’s the best dosage time for Namenda?
If you take Namenda once daily, it doesn’t matter what time of day you take it. But it is most important to take it at the same time each day. Some people experience dizziness, so taking it before bedtime may help minimize this side effect.
If you take Namenda twice daily, it’s best to take the doses 8 to 12 hours apart.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have more questions about when to take your doses of Namenda.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Namenda?
If you miss one dose of Namenda, do not double up doses. Skip the missed dose, and then take your next dose at your usual scheduled time.
If you have missed doses of Namenda for several days, call your doctor. They may have you restart the drug at a lower dose.
To help make sure you don’t miss doses, try using a medication reminder. You could also download a reminder app on your phone.
Do not take more Namenda than your doctor prescribes, as this can lead to harmful effects.
Symptoms of overdose
Symptoms caused by an overdose can include:
- weakness
- vomiting
- dizziness
- seeing things that aren’t really there
- loss of awareness with reality
- sleepiness
- confusion
- agitation or restlessness
- high blood pressure and slow heartbeat
- coma
What to do in case you take too much Namenda
Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much Namenda. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number). Or go to the nearest emergency room.
Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.