Memantine Hydrochloride Macleods Pharma Uk (Memantine Hydrochloride)

• Memantine Hydrochloride is an NMDA receptor antagonist indicated for the management of Alzheimer’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder affecting cognition and function.
• Alzheimer’s disease (moderate to severe): improves cognition, daily functioning and global clinical status.
• Alzheimer’s disease (mild to moderate, adjunct): may provide additional benefit when combined with cholinesterase inhibitors.
• Behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease: can reduce agitation and aggression in some patients.

• Memantine Hydrochloride acts as an uncompetitive antagonist at the N‑methyl‑D‑aspartate (NMDA) receptor ion channel. By binding within the channel when it is excessively open, it reduces calcium influx and limits excitotoxic neuronal injury while preserving normal physiological neurotransmission, thereby helping to stabilize neuronal function in Alzheimer’s disease.

Memantine is generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Dizziness: transient sensation of light‑headedness.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Constipation: reduced bowel motility.
• Confusion: occasional disorientation.
• Fatigue: feeling of tiredness.
• Hypertension: modest increase in blood pressure.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Seizures: new‑onset convulsive episodes.
• Severe allergic reaction: rash, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: serious skin eruption.
• Hepatic dysfunction: elevated liver enzymes.
• Cardiac arrhythmia: irregular heart rhythm.
• Psychosis: emergence of hallucinations or delusions.

• Memantine should be used with caution in specific clinical situations.
• Renal impairment: dose adjustment may be required.
• History of seizures: monitor for increased seizure activity.
• Cardiovascular disease: use cautiously in patients with uncontrolled hypertension.
• Concurrent NMDA antagonists: avoid co‑administration to prevent additive toxicity.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: risk unknown; discuss with a healthcare professional.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Memantine may interact with other medicines, requiring attention to avoid adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Amantadine: additive NMDA antagonism may increase neurotoxicity.
• Ketamine: combined CNS depression can be hazardous.
• Other NMDA antagonists: concurrent use may amplify side effects.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antihypertensives: memantine may enhance hypotensive effects.
• CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines): may increase dizziness or sedation.
• Anticholinergic agents: could worsen cognitive impairment.
• Diuretics: monitor electrolyte balance.
• Proton‑pump inhibitors: may affect memantine absorption.