Key takeaways
Memantine (Namenda) and Namzaric (memantine/donepezil) are both used to treat moderate-to-severe dementia related to Alzheimer's disease, but they have some key differences. Memantine is an NMDA antagonist that works by lowering the activity of certain chemical messengers in the brain to prevent nerve damage. It is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, and can be taken once or twice daily. Namzaric, on the other hand, is a combination of memantine and donepezil, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that raises acetylcholine levels in the brain. Namzaric is only available as an extended-release medication and is taken once daily, typically in the evening. While memantine can be used alone, Namzaric is prescribed when your condition is stable on donepezil 10 mg daily. Namzaric offers the convenience of combining two medications in one, but it is only available as a brand, making it potentially more expensive. Both medications can cause side effects like dizziness and headaches, but Namzaric has additional risks such as stomach ulcers and a slowed heartbeat.
