Namenda is a drug that treats symptoms of mild to severe Alzheimer's disease. It is taken orally, in 10mg tablets, once or twice daily. Namenda is NMDA receptor antagonist. It works by regulating the activity of a neurotransmitter in the brain called glutamate. As a result, it helps to reduce symptoms such as
● Memory loss
● Confusion
● Difficulty with daily activities
Doctors normally prescribe Namenda in combination with other Alzheimer's drugs. Like cholinesterase inhibitors. Besides, it is vital to take Namenda as your doctor says, as it may take several weeks for the full effects to be seen.
Namenda was first approved by the US FDA in October 2003 for the treatment of mild to severe Alzheimer's disease. It was developed by the pharmaceutical company Merz and is currently marketed by Allergan.
The development of Namenda began in the 1970s. When researchers found that the neurotransmitter glutamate played a role in the signs of Alzheimer's disease. They began to explore the use of drugs that could regulate the activity of glutamate in the brain. In the 1990s, they found that memantine, a compound that was developed in the 1960s as an anti-inflammatory, had the potential as an Alzheimer's treatment.
Memantine was first tested in clinical trials in the late 1990s, and the results were promising enough for the FDA to grant it fast-track approval in 2003. Namenda was the first medicine of its kind to be approved to cure Alzheimer's disease. Since it has become a vital treatment option for many patients with this condition.
But, you should note that while Namenda can help to ease symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. It is not a cure for the state and doesn’t change the growth of the disease. It is prescribed as an addition to other Alzheimer's drugs like cholinesterase inhibitors and with lifestyle and management changes.
WHAT IS ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE?
A brain illness called Alzheimer's affects
- Memory
- Thinking
- Behavior
It is the common cause of dementia and a progressive disorder, meaning it worsens over time. It is caused by the damage and death of nerve cells in the brain and plaques and tangles characterize it. There is no cure. But some cures can help manage the symptoms.
The symptoms of Alzheimer's disease are
● Memory loss
● Difficulty completing familiar tasks
● Changes in mood or behavior
● Difficulty with language
● Disorientation
● Mood swings
● Personality changes
As the disease progresses, individuals may need full-time help with day-to-day activities.
Alzheimer's disease's etiology is not fully known. But, scientists believe that a mix of genes, lifestyle, and environmental factors contribute to its growth. Risk factors for the disease are
● Age
● Family history
● Genetics
● Hypertension
● Diabetes
● High cholesterol
● Head injury.
USES OF NAMENDA
Namenda treats symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. It regulates the activity of glutamate in the brain. In return, it reduces symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with daily activities. Namenda is prescribed with other Alzheimer's medicines. Such as cholinesterase inhibitors. You can take it with your mouth, once or twice every day.
BENEFITS OF NAMENDA
Reduces signs of Alzheimer's disease. Such as memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with daily activities
Regulates the activity of glutamate in the brain to improve cognitive function
Can be prescribed in combination with other Alzheimer's pills
You can take it with your mouth and is well-tolerated
This pill can help improve the quality of life for people with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.
Can delay the growth of the disease
Can help to maintain functional abilities for a long time
SIDE EFFECTS OF NAMENDA
● Dizziness
● Headache
● Constipation
● Diarrhea
● Drowsiness
● Nausea
● Confusion
● Insomnia
● Agitation
● Hallucinations
● Depression
● High blood pressure
● Chest pain
Also, not all people are going to notice these side effects. But, it is always vital to talk to your doctor about the side effects. And if you notice any, report it to your doctor without any delays.
PRECAUTIONS
If you are thinking of taking this pill, then there are some precautions to take. This will help you get the full benefit of the Namenda.
Inform your doctor if you have a history of kidney or liver disease, high BP, or any other medical issues before taking Namenda.
Inform your doctor if you are nursing a baby, intend to get pregnant, or are already pregnant.
Be aware that Namenda may cause drowsiness or dizziness, and use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery.
If you have a history of seizures, Namenda may raise your risk of seizures, so use it with caution.
Watch blood pressure and kidney status while taking this medicine.
Do not stop taking Namenda without consulting your doctor first.
Keep the Namenda in a safe place, out of reach of children and pets.
FAQ
How does Namenda work?
It works by controlling the activity of glutamate in the brain. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist. It means it blocks the activity of some receptors in the brain that are triggered by glutamate. This can help to lower the signs such as
- memory loss
- Confusion
- difficulty with daily activities in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How is Namenda taken?
You can take this pill with your mouth. It is available in tablet form, once or twice daily. The dosage and frequency of taking this pill are chosen by your medic based on your needs. It is vital to take the Namenda as per your medic’s advice, and do not change the dose without first talking with your doctor.
How long does Namenda take to start working?
It may take many weeks for the full effects of Namenda to be seen. It is vital to continue taking the drug for as long as your doctor says, even if you do not notice any quick progress in symptoms.
Can Namenda be used in combination with other Alzheimer's medications?
Yes, this pill is prescribed with other drugs used to treat Alzheimer's disease, such as cholinesterase inhibitors. Your doctor will select the best cure plan for you based on your needs.
Can Namenda cure Alzheimer's disease?
No, Namenda does not cure Alzheimer's disease. It helps to manage the symptoms and slow down the growth of the disease. It is vital to work with a medic to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
CONCLUSION
Namenda is a drug that treats symptoms of mild to serious Alzheimer's disease. It works by controlling the activity of glutamate in the brain. As a result, it helps to reduce symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, and problem with day-to-day activities. This pill is prescribed with other Alzheimer's drugs and you can take it orally. It may have some side effects and precautions should be taken when taking it. It's vital to work with a healthcare professional to manage the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and improve the quality of life for patients with this condition. Namenda is not a cure for Alzheimer's disease, but it can help to slow down the progression of the disease.
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