Since 1995 - Non Profit Healthcare Advice

Namenda

10/17/2011

Question:

My dad has parkinson`s and has trouble keeping his balance. He told the doctor and he put him on namenda. When i looked up namenda it mainly said it was for dementia` My dad does not have dementia. He is sharp as a whip. Is namenda sometimes prescribed for balance and avoiding falls? Thank you very much.

Answer:

Memantine (Namenda) is sometimes tried for individuals with Parkinson’s disease when there are features of cognitive problems.

It is not uncommon for some of the changes in cognition to lead to an increase in  falls, and a trial of this medication may help lessen the fallling.

Further, there are studies looking at the effect of this medication on all aspects of the disease, but there is currently no significant evidence to support this medication helps improve balance.

I suggest the this be discussed further with your father’s health care provider.

For more information:

Go to the Parkinson’s Disease health topic.