What is Donepezil and memantine?
Donepezil enhances the function and health of brain nerve cells. It works by stopping the breakdown of a substance called acetylcholine. This chemical is usually lower in people with dementia. It's important for memory, reasoning, and thinking. Memantine reduces brain chemicals that could contribute to Alzheimer’s disease symptoms. Combination medicine Donepezil and memantine are used to treat Alzheimer's dementia. Donepezil or memantine do not cure Alzheimer's. Even those who take donepezil will experience this condition over time. This medication guide does not list all possible uses for memantine and donepezil.
Side effects of Donepezil and memantine
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or swelling to your lips or throat - please seek medical assistance immediately!
Side effects from donepezil or memantine can be serious. If you experience:
- Severe or persistent nausea
- Feeling dizzy as though they might pass out.
- Slow heartbeats
- Seizure (convulsions);
- Urination that is painful or difficult
- New or worsening respiratory problems
- Signs of stomach bleeding include severe stomach pain or heartburn, bloody or tarry stool, or vomiting that looks like coffee grounds.
Some of the common side effects associated with donepezil or memantine include:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite are all symptoms that can be experienced by people with this condition.
- Headache;
- Dizziness;
- Easy bruising.
There may be other side effects.Need advice regarding side effects? Speak with your physician. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
Donpezil, memantine, Aricept, Nameda, Rivastigmine, and Exelon
Warnings
Please read all the instructions on the label or package of your medication. Informing your healthcare provider of all medical conditions, allergies and medicines you are taking will facilitate faster care delivery and improve overall wellness.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to either donepezil or memantine, then it is best not to use them.
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that donepezil or memantine will be safe for you:
- Asthma or other breathing disorders;
- Heart disease or heart rhythm disorder
- A history of seizures
- Stomach ulcer or a history of stomach or intestinal bleeding
- Other urination issues or bladder obstruction
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease is a serious condition.
This medicine is not known to harm an unborn child. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. There is no way to know if donepezil or memantine can pass into breast milk or if they could harm a baby who is nursing. Inform your doctor if you're breastfeeding a child.
How to take Donepezil and memantine?
Do not alter the instructions on your prescription. Use this medication only as directed. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or use it for longer. If your doctor has not instructed you otherwise, take this medication at bedtime. Take donepezil or memantine either with food or without. Avoid crushing, chewing, or breaking an extended-release capsule. Take it in whole. You can open the capsule and sprinkle the medication into a spoonful or applesauce to make it easier to swallow. Swallow immediately without chewing. Don't save the mixture to use later. Avoid using a capsule that is broken or damaged. Tell your surgeon if you will need dental or surgical work. It may be necessary to temporarily stop taking the medication. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication. Your condition may worsen if you stop suddenly. Store away from moisture, heat, and light at room temperature.
Details on dosage
Adult dosage for Alzheimer's disease:
Patients who have stabilized with memantine (10mg twice daily or 28mg ER once per day) and donepezil (10mg once per day):
-Memantine ER 28 mg-donepezil orally 10 mg once daily in the evening
Comment: This drug is to be started the day after the last dose administered of donepezil and memantine separately.
Use:
Treatment of mild to moderate dementia of the Alzheimer's kind in patients stabilized on
-Memantine (28 mg ER twice daily or 10 mg once per day) or
Patients with severe renal impairment should be treated with donepezil (10 mg once daily) and memantine (5mg twice a week or 14mg ER).
What happens if I miss the dose?
As soon as you recall, take the missed dose. If your next scheduled dosage is approaching, skip the missed dose. You should not take more medicine to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention. Overdose symptoms include dizziness or fainting, a rapid or slow heartbeat. Other symptoms include sweating, confusion, or hallucinations.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies, may also interact with donepezil or memantine. Inform your healthcare providers of all the medicines you are taking and those you plan to take.
