Description
Donepezil and Memantine Tablets come with the brand name “DEPNEX-M” and are a combination drug containing a ‘neurological medicine,’ primarily used to treat Alzheimer’s disease (memory loss). Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neuro disorder that affects the brain. It causes the brain to shrink (atrophy) and brain cells (neurons) to die. This medicine is a combination medication containing Donepezil and Memantine, which treat Alzheimer’s disease.
Donepezil is a cholinesterase inhibitor that works by preventing the breakdown of the chemical acetylcholine and improving the function of nerve cells in the brain. Memantine works by lowering the level of the chemical in the brain which is responsible to cause symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Together, both of them balance the levels of chemical messengers in the brain and help transmit nerve signals.
Medical Benefits of Donepezil and Memantine Tablets
- It helps to slow down the progression of moderate to severe Alzheimer’s by improving memory and thinking.
- It also increases the levels of a chemical messenger involved in the transmission of nerve signals.
- Donepezil is a cholinesterase inhibitor that works by improving the function of nerve cells in the brain by preventing the breakdown of the chemical acetylcholine.
- Memantine works by lowering the level of chemicals in the brain, which is responsible for causing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
Directions For Use
- Your doctor will advise you how often you take your tablets on the basis of your medical condition.
- Swallow Donepezil and Memantine Tablets with a full glass of water.
- Do not crush, chew or break it.
- Take this medicine preferably just before bedtime.
Storage
- Store in a cool and dry place
- Keep it away from sunlight.
- Keep out of the reach of children.
Precautions
- Increase the intake of fluids to keep yourself hydrated while taking this tablet as it may cause diarrhoea.
- Before using it, inform your doctor if you have ever had heart problems, stomach ulcers, epilepsy, or asthma.
- Donepezil and Memantine Tablets are known to interact with pain killers (aspirin), anticholinergics (donepezil), antiparkinson’s disease (amantadine), ketamine, dextromethorphan), anti-fungal (ketoconazole) and so on.
- Taking alcohol, along with this composition, may increase its drowsiness effect and cause excessive sleepiness.
Side Effects
- Dizziness
- Weight loss
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Headache
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can the use of this tablet cause diarrhoea?
Yes, the use of it can cause diarrhoea. In some cases, the patient may experience diarrhoea. So, please increase the intake of fluids to avoid dehydration. And also do not take any other medicines without speaking to a doctor.
Can this medicine cause weight loss?
Yes, it is known to cause weight loss. So, while taking it, you should constantly monitor your body weight to avoid major weight loss.
What happens if more than the recommended dose of this composition is taken?
Taking it in more than the recommended dose can cause unpleasant side effects such as dizziness, tremor, agitation, convulsion, coma, nausea, vomiting, changes in heart rhythm, decreased blood pressure, and change in body fluid/salt balance.
I am 65 years, is this medicine safe for me?
Yes, Alzheimer’s disease (memory loss) generally occurs in people who are elderly and aged. So, it is safe for the elderly population, but the dose should be given by a doctor depending upon any underlining disease condition you are suffering from. Also, never self-medicate.