Memantine

Information About Memantine

Uses of Memantine

Memantine is commonly used in the treatment of alzheimer's disease.

How Memantine Works

Memantine is a N-methyl-D-aspartate-receptor (NMDA receptor) antagonist which works by binding to NMDA-receptor and inhibits glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter in the CNS because in Alzheimer's disease, Glutamate overstimulates glutamate receptors resulting in neuronal dysfunction.

Side Effects of Memantine

Headache, Somnolence, Dizziness, Constipation, Hypertension, Dyspnea, Abnormal gait, Hypertonia, Fungal infections, Cystitis, Thromboembolism, Increased libido, Psychotic reactions

Information Updated on : Mon Apr 22 2024 15:53:18 GMT+0800 (Malaysia Time)

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Available Medicine for Memantine

Ebixa 20mg Tablet

Mementor 10mg Tablet

Ebixa 10mg Tablet

Memantine Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

There is no data showed the interaction of memantine with alcohol, however, it is not advisable to take both of them at the same time based on the fact that alcohol will double the side effects if memantine such as dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting and confusion.

Pregnancy Maybe Safe

Neither animal or human studies have shown adverse effect of Memantine on the fetus in the first trimester, as well as in later trimester. Limited studies done on pregnant women because of the usage of Memantine in treating Alzheimer's disease, which is commonly found in older age. Please consult your doctor before usage.

Lactation Limited Data

No data have found about lactation safety while consuming Memantine. However, the fact that memantine has lipophilic character, it has to potential to be excreted in breast milk. Please stop breastfeeding if you are consuming Memantine.

Driving Not advisable

Alzheimer's disease itself impairs your ability to drive alone and with the addition of memantine, your driving impairment will be affected even more. Family members should receive prior warnings.

Kidney High Risk

Dose adjustment for Memantine may be needed in patients with moderate-to-severe kidney impairment. Please consult your doctor.

Liver Limited Data

Memantine should be used with caution in patients with mild to moderate liver disease but its use is not recommended in severe type. Please consult your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions on Memantine

FAQ

Can I take Memantine with my cold, flu and cough medication?

Some cold, flu and cough preparations contains a medication called dextromethorphan which can increase the effect of Memantine when being taken together. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking both of them together.

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