Memantine Ohre Pharma (Memantine Hydrochloride)

• Memantine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, is employed in the therapeutic approach to neurodegenerative conditions, with its principal clinical application being the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, where it targets glutamate‑mediated excitotoxicity to support neuronal function.
• Alzheimer’s disease (moderate to severe): improves cognition, functional abilities, and global clinical status in patients with symptomatic disease.
• Behavioral symptoms in Alzheimer’s disease: may reduce agitation, aggression, and caregiver burden.
• Dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease: supports activities of daily living and slows functional decline.

• Memantine Hydrochloride acts as a non‑competitive antagonist at the NMDA‑type glutamate receptor. By binding within the receptor‑associated ion channel at moderate affinity and voltage‑dependent manner, it blocks excessive calcium influx caused by prolonged glutamate activation, thereby reducing excitotoxic neuronal injury while preserving normal synaptic transmission. This modulation helps to stabilize neuronal activity without completely inhibiting physiological glutamatergic signaling, which is essential for learning and memory processes.

Memantine may be associated with a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to serious.

Common Side Effects

• Dizziness: transient sensation of light‑headedness.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Constipation: reduced bowel movements.
• Confusion: occasional disorientation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe skin rash (e.g., Stevens‑Johnson syndrome): requires immediate medical attention.
• Seizures: rare but potentially life‑threatening.
• Hallucinations or psychosis: may occur in susceptible individuals.
• Cardiac arrhythmia: irregular heart rhythm requiring evaluation.

When prescribing Memantine, clinicians should consider several safety aspects.

• Renal impairment: assess renal function and adjust dose if necessary.
• Hepatic impairment: use with caution and monitor liver enzymes.
• History of seizures: monitor closely for increased seizure activity.
• Concurrent use with other NMDA antagonists: avoid additive neurotoxicity.
• Psychiatric disorders: observe for worsening of symptoms.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and light.

Memantine can interact with other medications, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Amantadine: increased risk of neurotoxicity.
• Ketamine: additive NMDA antagonism may enhance CNS effects.
• Other NMDA antagonists: heightened central nervous system depression.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Anticholinergics: may reduce Memantine efficacy.
• CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids): enhanced sedation and respiratory depression.
• Diuretics (e.g., furosemide): may alter plasma concentrations of Memantine.