Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Namenda as follows:
- Namenda use can result in diffuse body and joint pains, weakness, and unsteadiness, with increased fall risk and accidents. Confusion and dizziness with namenda use, can add to the fall risk, thus enhancing it further. Plan most of the activity for the patient around caregiver availability, so that, caregivers can exercise a close watch on patients taking namenda, to prevent any falls and accidents. Reinforce compliance with use of DME and other supportive devices to add to fall prevention.
- Namenda use can result in irritation of the bladder, increased frequency of urination, deteriorating incontinence, increased episodes of bed-wetting, and can potentiate risk for development of UTI. Poor continence and increased bed-wetting can also significantly increase risk for skin integrity and lead to pressure ulcers in seniors. Observing compliance with recommended fluid intake and rehydration measures can prevent fluid deficit due to increased frequency. Avoiding caffeinated drinks, carbonated beverages, alcohol, and spicy foods, especially closer to the sleep time, can promote relief with bladder irritation. Encourage periodical bladder emptying by giving timely reminders can help better management of episodes of incontinence and accidents. Closely monitoring for development of pressure ulcers on the dependent body parts, secondary to increased bed-wetting, can help prevent risk for skin integrity.
- Take this medication as ordered by your physician. Do not change the dose and frequency on this medication without consulting your doctor. Take the medication dose for the duration prescribed without fail.
- Take the medication dose at the same time, every day, to avoid forgetting the intake of medication.
