Generic Namenda Alzheimer's Drug Now Available

Generic versions of Actavis’s Namenda treatment for moderate-to-severe Alzheimer’s dementia have been launched by Dr. Reddy's Laboratories and Mylan.

Both manufacturers’ generic memantine hydrochloride tablets are available in 5-mg and 10-mg strengths.

The drug’s dosing schedule begins at a low dose of 5 mg per day that is gradually increased until the recommended target dose of 10 mg twice daily is reached.

The brand-name medication had US sales of $1.4 billion for 1 year ending on March 31, 2015, according to IMS Health data.

The FDA has granted Dr. Reddy’s and Mylan 180 days of shared generic drug marketing exclusivity.

The most common side effects associated with Namenda treatment are dizziness, confusion, headache, and constipation.

Before prescribing Namenda, health care professionals should consult with the patient about past and present seizure disorders, difficulty passing urine, or liver, kidney, and bladder problems.

There is no evidence that Namenda prevents or slows the underlying Alzheimer's disease process.