Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Memantine requires a valid prescription.
Memantine
Generic Name: MEMANTINE
Memantine hydrochloride, USP is an orally active NMDA receptor antagonist.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Memantine Used For?
- Moderate to severe dementia of the Alzheimer’s type
How Does It Work?
Memantine is postulated to exert its therapeutic effect through its action as a low to moderate affinity uncompetitive (open-channel) NMDA receptor antagonist which binds preferentially to the NMDA receptor-operated cation channels.
Dosage & Administration
- The recommended starting dose of memantine hydrochloride tablets is 5 mg once daily.
- The dose should be increased in 5 mg increments to 10 mg/day (5 mg twice daily), 15 mg/day (5 mg and 10 mg as separate doses), and 20 mg/day (10 mg twice daily).
- The minimum recommended interval between dose increases is one week.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- Conditions that raise urine pH may decrease the urinary elimination of memantine, resulting in increased plasma levels of memantine. (5.1, 7.1) 5.1 Genitourinary Conditions Conditions that raise urine pH may decrease the urinary elimination of memantine resulting in increased plasma levels of memantine [see Drug Interactions ] .
Who Should NOT Take This?
- Memantine hydrochloride tablets are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to memantine hydrochloride or to any excipients used in the formulation.
- Memantine hydrochloride tablets are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to memantine hydrochloride or to any excipients used in the formulation. (4)
Drug Interactions
Memantine may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Speak to a neurologist on Zospital
Consult a neurologist on Zospital before starting Memantine. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Neurological Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Memantine – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Memantine, its uses, dosage and safety.
Memantine is commonly prescribed in India for: Moderate to severe dementia of the Alzheimer’s type. Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Memantine is sold in India under brand names such as Namzaric, Namenda, Memantine hydrochloride. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Memantine is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Memantine can include: Vomiting, Constipation, Headache, Dizziness, Fatigue, Cough, Back pain. Less common but serious side effects can include: Severe, Agranulocytosis, Suicidal, Seizure, Pancreatitis. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
Memantine is postulated to exert its therapeutic effect through its action as a low to moderate affinity uncompetitive (open-channel) NMDA receptor antagonist which binds preferentially to the NMDA receptor-operated cation channels.
Memantine can interact with: Urine, Alkaline. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Memantine.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Memantine for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Memantine depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Memantine during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹30 – ₹500 per strip / vial depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Memantine's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.