Memantine Hydrochloride

Generic Name

Memantine Hydrochloride

Other Names

• Namenda

Drug Class

• NMDA receptor antagonist

Chemical Formula

C12H21N•HCl

Molecular Weight

215.76 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

• Blocks NMDA receptors and regulates glutamate activity in the brain

Indications

• Alzheimer's disease
• Dementia

Common Dosage Forms

• Tablet
• Oral Solution

Typical Dosage

• Initial dose: 5 mg once daily, then gradually increase

Pediatric Dosage

• Not established

Geriatric Dosage

• Adjust according to renal function

Side Effects

• Headache
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Fatigue

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to memantine
• Severe renal impairment

Pregnancy Category

• Category B - No risks have been found in humans

Lactation Safety

• Limited data available, caution advised

Drug Interactions

• Amantadine
• Cimetidine
• Dextromethorphan

Overdose Symptoms

• Agitation
• Confusion
• Hallucinations

Antidote for Overdose

• No specific antidote, symptomatic treatment

Storage Conditions

• Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C)

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Rapidly absorbed after oral administration
• Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier
• Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism
• Excretion: Primarily excreted unchanged in urine

Precautions

• Monitor renal function regularly
• Use caution in seizures or hepatic impairment

Warnings

• May cause dizziness, advise patients to use caution when driving or operating machinery

Others

• May take with or without food