Alzheimer's disease is a terrible illness. Nearly 5.4 million people in America have Alzheimer's disease as of 2016. Out of those 5.4 million, 5.2 million are age 65 or older, which means that approximately 200,000 people are younger than 65 and have younger-onset Alzheimer's.
This disease causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. It is a type of dementia that develops slowly and becomes much worse over time, eventually reaching a point where normal daily tasks become nearly impossible. Alzheimer's disease accounts for 60% to 80% of all dementia cases.
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease. So when a patient develops this disease, they might experience mild symptoms, such as memory loss, but as time goes on these symptoms become more and more severe to a point where holding a conversation becomes impossible.
Furthermore, responding to environments becomes very difficult as well. AD is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States.
At the given time, there is no cure of Alzheimer's disease, but research regarding this dementia based condition is constantly underway.
There are some treatments designed to slow down the progression of AD, but nothing has been developed to completely prevent the mental deterioration caused by Alzheimer's disease. One of the medications used to help with symptoms of AD is Memantine.
What is Memantine?
Certain chemicals in our brain can contribute to the symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Memantine is a drug that works to counteract these chemicals and reduce these side-effects and symptoms associated with AD.
This medication is used to treat moderate to severe dementia. Memantine will not cure AD and it is not capable of stopping the progression of Alzheimer's, but it can slow down the symptoms that come with it, giving some minor relief to the patient and their immediate family.
What should I know about taking mementine?
The dosage and suggested type of intake will vary from one patient to another. Your doctor will be the one who will prescribe mementine for you, and they will give you precise directions on when to take it and what dosage to observe.
If you accidentally miss a dose, take it as soon as possible unless it is nearly time for your next dose.
Do not compensate for missed dosage, as this can cause severe issues which can pose serious health risks. Generally, this medication will come in a capsule form or tablets.
You should mention to your doctor if you are unable to swallow oral medication or have an issue with this type of intake.
If you forget to notify your doctor about difficulties with oral intake, you can also open the capsules and empty the powder into a small amount of soft food like yogurt or pudding.
What should I tell my medical professional prior to taking mementine?
You should have your doctor determine if you are allergic to mementine. There are some conditions which might make it very dangerous to take mementine.
You should mention to your doctor if you have any of the following: liver disease, kidney disease, bladder or kidney infection, epilepsy, any seizure disorders, or urinary problems.
There hasn’t been much research done regarding the effects of mementine on patients who are pregnant, nor has there been research regarding if mementine can pass into breast milk.
Because of this, you must mention it to your doctor if you are planning on having a child or are pregnant.
This is not a concern for most AD patients, but may be a factor for someone who suffers from AD onset at a young age.
What are some dangers of taking mementine?
Since this medication is designed to target brain functions and cognitive capabilities, it is not recommended to drive after taking your dosage.
Anything that requires you to be alert and awake should be done without the influence of mementine for safety reasons.
However, most of these activities also fall onto the list of things that should be avoided by Alzheimer’s patients at all times.
What are the known side-effects of mementine?
If you discover symptoms of an allergic reaction after taking mementine, such as hives, any type of swelling, or difficulty breathing, you should seek emergency medical attention immediately.
You doctor should be informed if any of the following symptoms develop while taking mementine: abnormal change in frame of mind or behavior, sudden seizures, severe headaches or migraines, vision impairment, or severe pulsations in the neck or ears.
There are some common side-effects which are associated with mementine, such as light headaches, dizziness, or diarrhea.
There is possibility that you might develop other uncommon side-effects, and if you notice any changes in your health you should contact your doctor and discuss these health altering side-effects.
What other medications can affect mementine?
There are a few other drugs out there that might cause complications or even render mementine ineffective.
You should discuss all medications you are planning on taking while using mementine with your doctor.
There are also a few over the counter medications that have an effect on mementine. Cough medicine that contains dextromethorphan, like Vicks 44, should be avoided while taking mementine.
No matter which medication you decide to use while on mementine, always communicate with your doctor to ensure safety.
Memantine Review Summary
Mementine is one of the best options when it comes to treating Alzheimer's disease. Many patients turn to this drug when seeking to diminish the symptoms associated with AD and dementia.
We wish there was a cure for AD, but unfortunately this medication is currently one of very few options when it comes to Alzheimer's disease treatment.
Perhaps in the near future we will not need mementine and there will be an alternative that can cure Alzheimer's disease.
Remember, every person on our planet is unique in their own way. This doesn’t only pertain to their mind and personality but is also extends to their body and physiology.
This means that mementine can function differently for each person. If you believe that the medication is not helping or its effectiveness is hindered in some way, then you should mention you concerns to your medical professional and see if anything can be done to improve your condition.
As always, make sure to be careful with the dosage of mementine, or any other medication for that matter. If you suspect a possible overdoes you should seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
