Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is memantine. It may help slow down the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. For example, it may help people do daily tasks and think more clearly for a longer period of time.

You should take memantine exactly as your doctor tells you to. You can take it with or without food. Your doctor may increase your dose slowly at first. This can help reduce side effects.

Memantine is available in different dosage forms, such as a tablet or a liquid. If you use the liquid, be sure to read the directions first. The directions will explain how to measure the correct dose. 

Most people tolerate memantine well. Common side effects include a headache and constipation. You could also feel a little confused or dizzy. You should wait until you know how this medicine affects you before you do activities that require you to be alert, like driving. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Drug interactions can occur. You should always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines.

For best results with memantine, be sure to read the Patient Information guide for more information.