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Memantine
Memantine is a medication that is licensed to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. Although it is not a cure for the condition, it can help slow down the worsening of symptoms. The medication, which is available by prescription, comes in tablet and liquid forms. While most people tolerate it well, potential side effects include headache, constipation, and dizziness.
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Memantine hydrochloride (Namenda®) is a prescription medication approved to treat moderate to severe dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease. It is not a cure for Alzheimer's disease, but can help slow down the worsening of Alzheimer's symptoms.
(Click What Is Memantine Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with memantine. However, not everyone who takes the drug will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of memantine include, but are not limited to:
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Confusion
- Constipation.
(Click Side Effects of Memantine to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD