Skip to content

Healthwise

Browse Health Information

Search Health Topics

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Donepezil/Memantine Extended Release Oral Capsule (MEMANTINE/DONEPEZIL - ORAL)

For Alzheimer's disease.

Brand Name(s): Namzaric

Generic Name: Donepezil/Memantine, Donepezil/Memantine Titration Pack

Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

You may open the capsule and sprinkle onto applesauce. Eat the applesauce without chewing the medicine.

This medicine may be taken with or without food.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget a dose, just wait. Use the next dose at the usual time. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Talk to your doctor before taking other medicines, including aspirins and ibuprofen containing products. Speak to your doctor about which medicines are safe to use while you are on this medicine.

Do not take the medicine more than once during 24 hours.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine may cause serious bleeding from the stomach or bowels. Stop this medicine and call your doctor immediately if you see any signs of bleeding. Bleeding can cause pain in the stomach, vomiting up liquid that looks like coffee grounds, and red or dark tarry stools.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting, especially after exercising or in hot weather. Be very careful when standing or sitting up quickly.

If possible, avoid using with marijuana or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Speak with your doctor before taking any medicine with aspirin.

If you drink more than a few alcoholic beverages each day, ask your doctor whether you should be on this medicine.

Avoid smoking while on this medicine. Smoking may increase your risk for stomach bleeding.

Avoid becoming overheated during exercise or other activities. Try to stay cool in hot weather.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Do not take St. John's wort while on this medicine.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating your medical condition.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Always refill this medicine before it runs out.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • decreased appetite
  • back pain
  • loss of bladder control
  • diarrhea
  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • headaches
  • nausea and vomiting
  • weight gain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • irregular heart beat
  • decreased awareness or responsiveness
  • bleeding or bruising
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • depression or feeling sad
  • fainting
  • hallucinations (unusual thoughts, seeing or hearing things that are not real)
  • fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
  • mood changes
  • restlessness
  • seizures
  • shortness of breath
  • severe stomach or bowel pain
  • bloody or dark, tarry stools
  • sweating
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating
  • severe or persistent vomiting
  • sudden or unexplained weight gain

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

We care about your heart!

Get help today.