Treatment

What is Memantine?

Memantine is a drug used in moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease that works differently from cholinesterase inhibitors and is sometimes given alongside them.

It regulates glutamate, another brain chemical. As with the cholinesterase inhibitors, it eases symptoms for some people rather than altering the disease.

It is generally well tolerated.

Why it matters

It is the second drug most families are offered, usually as the dementia progresses.

Sources

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Related terms

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