Memantine is an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist indicated for the symptomatic management of moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease both as monotherapy and in combination with donepezil, a cholinesterase inhibitor (ChEI). Small improvements in cognition and activities of daily living may be observed during treatment with ChEIs and memantine; however, the drugs do not prevent or delay progression of the disease. According to an effectiveness review from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), memantine may improve clinical impression of change but not function, and evidence is insufficient regarding cognition, other efficacy outcomes, and harms in adults with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. In adults with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease receiving cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine does not improve clinical impression of change, and evidence is insufficient for cognition, function, staging, and harms. Evidence is insufficient to determine the potential benefits and harms of using memantine to treat behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), including agitation, psychosis, aggression, or disinhibited sexual behavior. Memantine is not recommended for use in mild to moderate vascular dementia alone, but patients with mixed vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease may experience a small cognitive benefit. Memantine produces global improvements in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), but the pattern of cognitive and neuropsychiatric responsiveness is uncertain. Memantine is not effective for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Limited data suggest that memantine may be beneficial for the symptomatic treatment of acquired pendular nystagmus; however, further evaluation is required. In addition to having a mechanism of action distinct from other drugs used to treat cognitive impairment, memantine is predominantly eliminated by the kidneys in part by tubular secretion. Certain co-morbidities or the use of selected drugs or foods that raise urine pH may decrease urinary elimination of memantine and increase plasma concentrations, potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects.
General Administration Information
For storage information, see the specific product information within the How Supplied section.
Route-Specific Administration
Oral Administration
-Inform caregivers of the needed dose titration schedule.
-If a patient misses a single dose, the dose should be skipped and the next dose should be taken as scheduled. The patient should not take double or extra doses.
-If a patient fails to take memantine for several days, dosing may need to be resumed at lower doses and re-titrated.
Oral Solid Formulations
Immediate-release tablets:
-May administer with or without food.
Extended-release capsules:
-May administer with or without food.
-Do not chew, crush, or divide the capsule.
-May have patient swallow whole or the capsule may be opened and the entire contents sprinkled on applesauce before swallowing. The entire contents of the capsule should be consumed; the dose should not be divided.
Oral Liquid Formulations
Oral solution:
-The oral solution is administered with a dosing device that comes with the drug and consists of a syringe, syringe adaptor cap, tubing and other supplies needed to administer the drug. Instruct the patient or caregiver on the correct use of the oral dosing syringe.
-Do not mix the oral solution with any other liquid.
-May administer with or without food.
-Withdraw the correct volume of oral solution for the dose into the supplied syringe, and then slowly squirt the oral solution into the corner of the patient's mouth.
Serious rash has been reported with the use of memantine postmarketing. Stevens-Johnson syndrome has been reported during postmarketing use of memantine; however, the frequency is unknown and causality to the drug has not been established. In Europe, two postmarketing reports of toxic epidermal necrolysis (one resulting in a fatality) have been identified; however, causality with memantine is uncertain.
During clinical trials with immediate-release or extended-release (XR) memantine in adults with Alzheimer's dementia, the following adverse central nervous system (CNS) effects occurred in at least 2% of memantine-treated patients and more frequently than in patients receiving placebo: dizziness (5% to 7%), headache (6%), fatigue (2%), drowsiness (3%), confusion (6%),hallucinations (3%), anxiety (4%), depression (3%), and aggression (2%). Dizziness was the most common adverse effect resulting in discontinuation of treatment (1.5%) during clinical trials of extended-release memantine. Suicidal ideation has been reported during postmarketing use; however, the frequency is unknown and causality to the drug has not been established. In one placebo-controlled trial of pediatric patients 6 to 12 years of age with autism spectrum disorders receiving weight-based doses of extended-release memantine (3 to 15 mg/day), agitation was reported more frequently in the active treatment group (5.4%) vs. with placebo; memantine failed to show efficacy in this population. Aggression and irritability resulted in discontinuation in 3.6% and 1.8% of patients, respectively. In an open-label phase pediatric study, irritability was reported in 5.4% of patients and headache was reported in 8% of patients; irritability and aggression resulted in discontinuation in 1.2% and 1% of patients, respectively.
During clinical trials with immediate-release or extended-release (XR) memantine in adults, the following adverse cardiac effects occurred in at least 2% of memantine-treated patients and more frequently than in patients receiving placebo: hypertension (4%) and hypotension (2%). Congestive heart failure has been reported during postmarketing use of memantine, but causality to the drug has not been established.
During clinical trials with immediate-release or extended-release (XR) memantine in adults, the following adverse respiratory effects occurred in at least 2% of memantine-treated patients and more frequently than in patients receiving placebo: cough (4%), influenza (4%), and dyspnea (2%). In one placebo-controlled trial of pediatric patients 6 to 12 years of age with autism spectrum disorders receiving weight-based doses of extended-release memantine (3 to 15 mg/day), the following infections or related symptoms were reported more frequently in the active treatment group than the placebo group: cough (8.9%), influenza (7.1%), and rhinorrhea (5.4%); in the trial, memantine was not proven effective in this group of pediatric patients. In the open-label pediatric continuation phase, naso-pharyngitis was reported in 6.3% of patients and fever was reported in 5.8% of patients.
During clinical trials with immediate-release orextended-release (XR) memantine in adults, the following adverse gastrointestinal (GI) effects occurred in at least 2% of memantine-treated patients and more frequently than in patients receiving placebo: constipation (3% to 5%), diarrhea (5%), abdominal pain (2%), weight gain (3%), and vomiting (2% to 3%). Pancreatitis has been noted in postmarketing reports; however, the frequency is unknown and causality to the drug has not been established.
Musculoskeletal effects seen during clinical trials with immediate-release or extended-release memantine in adults at a rate of at least 2% and more frequently than placebo include: back pain (3%) and unspecified pain (3%).
During clinical trials with extended-release memantine in adults, urinary incontinence (2%) occurred more frequently than in patients receiving placebo. Acute renal failure (unspecified), increased serum creatinine, and renal insufficiency have been noted in postmarketing reports with memantine; however, the frequencies are unknown and causality to the drug has not been established.
Adverse hematologic effects that have been reported during postmarketing use of memantine in adults include agranulocytosis, leukopenia, neutropenia, pancytopenia, thrombocytopenia, and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). The frequencies are unknown and causality to the drug has not been established.
Memantine has not been formally studied in patients with a seizure disorder. During clinical trials with immediate-release memantine, seizures were reported in 0.2% of memantine-treated patients and 0.5% of those receiving placebo. During clinical trials with extended-release (XR) memantine, seizures were reported in 0.3% of memantine-treated patients and 0.6% of those receiving placebo.
Hepatitis has been reported during postmarketing use of memantine; however, the frequencies are unknown and causality to the drug has not been established.
The use of memantine is contraindicated in any patient with a known memantine hypersensitivity or hypersensitivity to any inactive ingredients or excipients contained within the products.
Memantine is predominantly eliminated by the kidneys in part by tubular secretion. Dosage adjustments of memantine are required in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl less than 30 mL/minute). No data are available for use of memantine in patients with renal failure on dialysis. Use memantine with caution in patients with conditions that could affect urinary pH such as renal tubular acidosis (RTA), severe urinary tract infection (UTI), and renal failure. Conditions, drugs, and/or foods that raise urine pH may decrease urinary elimination of memantine and increase plasma concentrations, potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects, such as dizziness, headache or agitation. The concurrent use of drugs that use the same cationic renal tubular secretion system for elimination could potentially result in altered plasma concentrations of memantine or the co-prescribed drug. Carefully monitor patients for response and adverse effects related to each agent.
Memantine undergoes partial hepatic metabolism. Caution is advised when using memantine in those with severe hepatic disease as specific studies of the drug in these patients are not available and the elimination half-life may be prolonged. No dosage adjustments are required in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment.
The majority of people with Alzheimer's disease are 65 years and older; during clinical trials in patients with Alzheimer's dementia, there was no noted differences in adverse effects reported among geriatric patients and those younger than 65 years of age. Geriatric patients may be at greater risk for renal impairment due to age-related changes in renal function, concomitant medications or other risk factors that may influence dosage. The federal Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) regulates medication use in residents of long-term care facilities (LTCFs). According to OBRA guidelines, the continued use of memantine for the treatment of a cognitive disorder in residents of a LTCF should be re-evaluated as the underlying disorder progresses into advanced stages. Adverse effects of memantine include restlessness, distress, dizziness, somnolence, hypertension, headache, hallucinations, and increased confusion.
There are no adequate data on the potential developmental risks to the fetus during pregnancy; therefore, it is advisable to avoid memantine during pregnancy if possible. Results from animal studies during organogenesis showed that memantine was not teratogenic at doses above the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD); however, adverse developmental effects (e.g., decreased body weight and skeletal ossifications) were observed in the offspring. The effects of memantine during labor and delivery, if any, are unknown.
When considering the use of memantine during breast-feeding, assess the developmental and health benefits of breast-feeding, along with the potential risks of infant drug exposure, and the risk of an untreated or inadequately treated maternal condition. There are no data on the presence of memantine in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects of memantine on milk production.
Memantine is not indicated for use in infants, children, or adolescents less than 18 years of age. Memantine failed to demonstrate efficacy in two 12-week controlled trials (n = 578) of pediatric patients 6 to 12 years of age with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), including autism Asperger's disorder and Pervasive Development Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). The dose of extended-release memantine was based upon weight as follows: weight less than 20 kg (3 mg/day), weight 20 to 39 kg (6 mg/day), weight 40 to 59 kg (9 mg/day), and weight 60 kg or more (15 mg/day). The overall safety profile of memantine in pediatric patients was generally comparable to the safety profile in adults.
For the treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease:
Oral dosage (immediate-release):
Adults: 5 mg PO once daily, initially. Increase the dose by 5 mg/day every week if tolerated. Usual dose: 10 mg PO twice daily.
Oral dosage (extended-release for memantine-naive):
Adults: 7 mg PO once daily, initially. Increase the dose by 7 mg/day every week if tolerated. Usual dose: 28 mg/day. Max: 28 mg/day.
Oral dosage (extended release for converting from immediate-release memantine):
Adults: 28 mg PO once daily for 10 mg PO twice daily.
For the symptomatic treatment of acquired pendular nystagmus*:
Oral dosage:
Adults: Limited data suggest 10 mg PO once daily titrated to 40 mg/day (administered as 10 mg 4 times daily) may be effective in reducing median eye speed and/or improving visual acuity. Study duration was 7 to 14 days.
For migraine prophylaxis*:
Oral dosage (immediate-release):
Adults: 5 mg PO once daily for 3 days, then 10 mg PO once daily. Guidelines classify memantine as having probable efficacy for migraine prophylaxis.
Maximum Dosage Limits:
-Adults
20 mg/day PO immediate-release formulations; 28 mg/day PO extended-release formulation.
-Geriatric
20 mg/day PO immediate-release formulations; 28 mg/day PO extended-release formulation.
-Adolescents
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
-Children
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
-Infants
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Patients with Hepatic Impairment Dosing
No dosage adjustments are required for patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. Memantine should be administered with caution to patients with severe hepatic impairment.
Patients with Renal Impairment Dosing
CrCl 30 mL/minute or more: No dosage adjustment is needed.
CrCl 5 to 29 mL/minute: A target dose of 5 mg PO twice daily of immediate-release (IR) formulations is recommended. A target dose of 14 mg PO once daily of the extended-release (XR) form is recommended. If switching from the IR forms to XR, switch to memantine XR 14 mg PO once daily the day following the last dose of 5 mg memantine IR.
CrCl less than 5 mL/minute: No dosage recommendation is available; no specific hemodialysis information is available.
*non-FDA-approved indication
Abacavir; Dolutegravir; Lamivudine: (Moderate) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as lamivudine, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Abacavir; Lamivudine, 3TC: (Moderate) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as lamivudine, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Abacavir; Lamivudine, 3TC; Zidovudine, ZDV: (Moderate) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as lamivudine, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Doxylamine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Acetazolamide: (Moderate) Systemic carbonic anhydrous inhibitors have the potential to increase urine pH, and potentially reduce the renal clearance of memantine. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Increases in urinary pH may decrease elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity.
Adefovir: (Moderate) Adefovir is eliminated renally by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion; coadministration of adefovir dipivoxil with drugs that reduce renal function or compete for active tubular secretion, such as memantine, may decrease adefovir elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems; therefore increasing serum concentrations of either adefovir and/or memantine may occur.
Aliskiren; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Alkalinizing Agents: (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Alogliptin; Metformin: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Amantadine: (Moderate) Amantadine is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of amantadine with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Amiloride: (Minor) Cationic drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion, such as amiloride, may decrease memantine elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. Careful patient monitoring and dose adjustment of memantine and/or amiloride is recommended.
Amiloride; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Cationic drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion, such as amiloride, may decrease memantine elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. Careful patient monitoring and dose adjustment of memantine and/or amiloride is recommended. (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Amlodipine; Valsartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Anticholinergics: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Aspirin, ASA; Citric Acid; Sodium Bicarbonate: (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Atropine: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Atropine; Difenoxin: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Belladonna; Opium: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Benazepril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Benzoic Acid; Hyoscyamine; Methenamine; Methylene Blue; Phenyl Salicylate: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Benztropine: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Bisoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Bromocriptine: (Moderate) The pharmacologic effects of dopaminergic agents, including the ergot derivative bromocriptine, may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of dopaminergic agents may be required when memantine is coadministered.
Brompheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Brompheniramine; Pseudoephedrine; Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Budesonide; Glycopyrrolate; Formoterol: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Canagliflozin; Metformin: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Candesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Captopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors: (Moderate) Systemic carbonic anhydrous inhibitors have the potential to increase urine pH, and potentially reduce the renal clearance of memantine. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Increases in urinary pH may decrease elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity.
Chlordiazepoxide; Clidinium: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Cimetidine: (Moderate) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as cimetidine, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Citric Acid; Potassium Citrate; Sodium Citrate: (Moderate) Increases in urinary pH may decrease elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Clofarabine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of clofarabine and memantine may result in altered clofarabine levels because both agents are a substrate of OCT2. Therefore, monitor for signs of clofarabine toxicity such as gastrointestinal toxicity (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mucosal inflammation), hematologic toxicity, and skin toxicity (e.g., hand and foot syndrome, rash, pruritus) in patients also receiving OCT2 substrates.
Dapagliflozin; Metformin: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Dexchlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Dextromethorphan; Bupropion: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Dextromethorphan; Diphenhydramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Dextromethorphan; Quinidine: (Major) Cationic drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion, such as quinidine, may compete with memantine for common renal tubular transport systems, thus possibly decreasing the elimination of one of the drugs. Although theoretical, careful patient monitoring of response to memantine and/or quinidine is recommended to assess for needed dosage adjustments. In selected individuals, quinidine serum concentration monitoring may be appropriate. (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Dicyclomine: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Digoxin: (Moderate) Digoxin is eliminated by renal tubular secretion and may compete with memantine for common renal tubular transport systems, thus possibly decreasing the elimination of one of the drugs. Although theoretical, careful patient monitoring of response to memantine and/or digoxin is recommended to assess for needed dosage adjustments. In selected individuals, digoxin serum concentration monitoring may be appropriate.
Diphenoxylate; Atropine: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Dofetilide: (Major) Drugs that are actively secreted via cationic secretion (e.g., memantine) should be co-administered with dofetilide with caution since they could increase dofetilide plasma concentrations via potential competition for renal tubular secretion. Competition for renal elimination may increase plasma concentrations of dofetilide and increase the risk of pro-arrhythmias.
Dolutegravir; Lamivudine: (Moderate) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as lamivudine, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Doravirine; Lamivudine; Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate: (Moderate) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as lamivudine, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Efavirenz; Lamivudine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as lamivudine, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Empagliflozin; Linagliptin; Metformin: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Empagliflozin; Metformin: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Enalapril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Entecavir: (Moderate) Entecavir is eliminated by active tubular secretion. In theory, coadministration of entecavir with other drugs that are eliminated by active tubular secretion, such as memantine, may increase the serum concentrations of entecavir or memantine due to competition for the drug elimination pathway.
Eprosartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Ertugliflozin; Metformin: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Flavoxate: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Fosinopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Glipizide; Metformin: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Glyburide; Metformin: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Glycopyrrolate: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Glycopyrrolate; Formoterol: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Homatropine; Hydrocodone: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Moexipril: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Hyoscyamine: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Hyoscyamine; Methenamine; Methylene Blue; Phenyl Salicylate; Sodium Biphosphate: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Ibritumomab Tiuxetan: (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Indacaterol; Glycopyrrolate: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Irbesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Ketamine: (Moderate) Ketamine is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of ketamine with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Lamivudine, 3TC: (Moderate) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as lamivudine, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Lamivudine, 3TC; Zidovudine, ZDV: (Moderate) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as lamivudine, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Lamivudine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as lamivudine, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Linagliptin; Metformin: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Lisinopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Losartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Metformin: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Metformin; Repaglinide: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Metformin; Saxagliptin: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Metformin; Sitagliptin: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Methazolamide: (Moderate) Systemic carbonic anhydrous inhibitors have the potential to increase urine pH, and potentially reduce the renal clearance of memantine. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Increases in urinary pH may decrease elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity.
Methenamine; Sodium Acid Phosphate; Methylene Blue; Hyoscyamine: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Methscopolamine: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Metoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Midodrine: (Moderate) Cationic drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion, such as midodrine, may decrease memantine elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. Although this interaction is theoretical, careful patient monitoring and dose adjustment of memantine and/or midodrine is recommended.
Morphine: (Moderate) Cationic drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion, such as morphine, may compete with memantine for common renal tubular transport systems, thus possibly decreasing the elimination of one of the drugs. Although theoretical, careful patient monitoring of response to memantine and/or morphine is recommended to assess for needed dosage adjustments.
Morphine; Naltrexone: (Moderate) Cationic drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion, such as morphine, may compete with memantine for common renal tubular transport systems, thus possibly decreasing the elimination of one of the drugs. Although theoretical, careful patient monitoring of response to memantine and/or morphine is recommended to assess for needed dosage adjustments.
Neostigmine; Glycopyrrolate: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Nicotine: (Minor) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, like nicotine, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Olmesartan; Amlodipine; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Olmesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Omeprazole; Sodium Bicarbonate: (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Oxybutynin: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Phenobarbital; Hyoscyamine; Atropine; Scopolamine: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Pioglitazone; Metformin: (Moderate) Certain medications used concomitantly with metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (e.g., memantine) may decrease metformin elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. It should be noted that in a pharmacokinetic study in which memantine and glyburide; metformin (Glucovance) were coadministered, the pharmacokinetics of memantine, metformin, or glyburide were not altered. Regardless, careful patient monitoring is recommended.
Potassium Bicarbonate: (Moderate) Increases in urinary pH may decrease elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Potassium Chloride: (Moderate) Increases in urinary pH may decrease elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity.
Potassium Citrate: (Moderate) Increases in urinary pH may decrease elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Potassium Citrate; Citric Acid: (Moderate) Increases in urinary pH may decrease elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Procainamide: (Major) Cationic drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion such as procainamide, may compete with memantine for common renal tubular transport systems, thus possibly decreasing the elimination of one of the drugs. Although theoretical, careful patient monitoring of response to memantine and/or procainamide is recommended to assess for needed dosage adjustments. In selected individuals, procainamide serum concentration monitoring may be appropriate.
Promethazine; Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) Dextromethorphan is a NMDA antagonist and may lead to additive adverse effects if combined with memantine, also an NMDA antagonist. It may be prudent to avoid coadministration of dextromethorphan with memantine. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for increased adverse effects such as agitation, dizziness and other CNS events.
Propantheline: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Quinapril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Quinidine: (Major) Cationic drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion, such as quinidine, may compete with memantine for common renal tubular transport systems, thus possibly decreasing the elimination of one of the drugs. Although theoretical, careful patient monitoring of response to memantine and/or quinidine is recommended to assess for needed dosage adjustments. In selected individuals, quinidine serum concentration monitoring may be appropriate.
Quinine: (Moderate) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as quinine, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Ranitidine: (Minor) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as ranitidine, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Ropinirole: (Moderate) The pharmacologic effects of dopaminergic agents, including dopamine agonists and certain ergot derivatives may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of dopaminergic agents may be required when memantine is coadministered.
Rotigotine: (Moderate) The pharmacologic effects of dopaminergic agents, including dopamine agonists such as rotigotine, may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of dopaminergic agents may be required when memantine is coadministered.
Scopolamine: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Sodium Acetate: (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Sodium Bicarbonate: (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Sodium Citrate; Citric Acid: (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Sodium Lactate: (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Solifenacin: (Moderate) The adverse effects of solifenacin may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the solifenacin may be required when memantine is coadministered.
Spironolactone; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Sulfacetamide; Sulfur: (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Sulfamethoxazole; Trimethoprim, SMX-TMP, Cotrimoxazole: (Moderate) Cationic drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion, such as trimethoprim, may decrease memantine elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. Although this interaction is theoretical, careful patient monitoring and dose adjustment of memantine and/or trimethoprim is recommended.
Telmisartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Triamterene: (Minor) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as triamterene, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Triamterene; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as triamterene, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs. (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Trihexyphenidyl: (Moderate) The adverse effects of anticholinergics, such as dry mouth, urinary hesitancy or blurred vision may be enhanced with use of memantine; dosage adjustments of the anticholinergic drug may be required when memantine is coadministered. In addition, preliminary evidence indicates that chronic anticholinergic use in patients with Alzheimer's Disease may possibly have an adverse effect on cognitive function. Therefore, the effectiveness of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's such as memantine, may be adversely affected by chronic antimuscarinic therapy.
Trimethoprim: (Moderate) Cationic drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion, such as trimethoprim, may decrease memantine elimination by competing for common renal tubular transport systems. Although this interaction is theoretical, careful patient monitoring and dose adjustment of memantine and/or trimethoprim is recommended.
Tromethamine: (Moderate) Urinary alkalinizing agents may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Memantine should be used with caution with drugs known to increase urinary pH.
Trospium: (Moderate) Memantine is excreted in part by renal tubular secretion. Competition of memantine for excretion with other drugs that are also eliminated by tubular secretion, such as trospium, could result in elevated serum concentrations of one or both drugs.
Valsartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Minor) Memantine reduced the bioavailability of hydrochlorothiazide by roughly 20% in a drug interaction study. The clinical significance of this pharmacokinetic interaction, if any, is unknown.
Vancomycin: (Moderate) Cationic drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion, such as vancomycin, may compete with memantine for common renal tubular transport systems, thus possibly decreasing the elimination of one of the drugs. Although theoretical, careful patient monitoring of response to memantine and/or vancomycin is recommended to assess for needed dosage adjustments. In selected individuals, vancomycin serum concentration monitoring may be appropriate.
Memantine is an antagonist at N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors with a low to moderate binding affinity. Persistent activation of central nervous system NMDA receptors by the excitatory amino acid glutamate has been theorized to contribute to the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Memantine is thought to exert its therapeutic effect by binding to the NMDA receptor-operated cation channels. There is no evidence that memantine slows or prevents neurodegenerative processes in Alzheimer's disease. High affinity NMDA antagonists, such as ketamine and dextromethorphan, are associated with excessive psychomimetic effects at dosages needed for dementia treatment and are therefore not practical alternatives. Memantine has negligible affinity for gamma-amino-butyric-acid (GABA), benzodiazepine, dopamine, adrenergic, histamine, and glycine receptors, and for voltage-dependent calcium, sodium, or potassium channels. Memantine appears to have antagonist activity at the 5-HT3 receptor, with similar potency to that of the NMDA receptor and partial affinity for nicotinic acetylcholine receptors with one-sixth to one-tenth the potency.
Memantine is administered orally as an immediate-release tablet, extended-release capsule, and oral solution. Protein binding, roughly 45%, is not a clinical concern. It rapidly crosses the blood brain barrier and can be detected in the CSF within 30 minutes of an IV infusion. The volume of distribution is 9 to 11 L/kg suggesting extensive distribution into tissues. Steady-state therapeutic plasma concentrations (0.37 to 0.5 microM) are similar between patients with dementia and healthy controls. Memantine undergoes partial hepatic metabolism; however, the hepatic CYP450 system does not play a significant role in the metabolism of the drug. Renal clearance involves active tubular secretion moderated by pH dependent tubular reabsorption. Increases in urinary pH may decrease the elimination of memantine, resulting in drug accumulation and potential toxicity. The clearance of memantine is reduced by about 80% under alkaline urine conditions at pH 8. Alternatively, acidification of the urine may increase the elimination of memantine. Memantine has an elimination half-life of 60 to 80 hours. About 48% of the dose is excreted in urine as unchanged drug or as the sum of parent drug and the N-glucuronide conjugate (74%).
Affected cytochrome P450 (CYP450) isoenzymes and drug transporters: MATE1
In vitro data suggest that MATE1 has a role in the renal secretion of memantine. When in vitro cells were exposed to cimetidine, a MATE1 inhibitor, MATE1 memantine excretion was abolished.
-Route-Specific Pharmacokinetics
Oral Route
Memantine is rapidly and completely absorbed with 100% bioavailability. Food does not alter the extent of absorption of the immediate-release (IR) or extended-release (ER) formulation; therefore, the drug may be taken with or without food. There is no difference in the systemic exposure of extended-release memantine between swallowing the capsule intact or sprinkling the contents on applesauce. However, other methods of administration such as cutting, dividing, or chewing the capsules should be avoided. The pharmacokinetics of immediate-release memantine are linear in the range of 5-40 mg single oral doses. Peak concentrations of the IR and ER formulations occur in 3 to 7 hours and 9to 12 hours, respectively. In a study comparing 28 mg/day of ER memantine to 10 mg twice daily of IR memantine, the extended-release memantine had a Cmax and AUC that were 48% and 33% higher, respectively. The serum concentration of memantine is roughly double that found in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Intravenous Route
Memantine can be detected in the CSF within 30 minutes of an IV infusion.
-Special Populations
Hepatic Impairment
In a small pharmacokinetic study (n = 16) evaluating single doses of memantine 20 mg in healthy patients compared to those with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B, score 7 to 9), the elimination half-life increased by about 16% in the hepatic impairment group compared to the healthy subjects. No change in Cmax or AUC was apparent between the two groups. According to the manufacturer, no dosage adjustments of memantine are needed in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment; however caution is advised when using the drug in those with severe hepatic impairment.
Renal Impairment
In a pharmacokinetic study evaluating patients with renal impairment, the mean AUC increased by 4%, 60%, and 115% in subjects with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment, respectively, compared to healthy subjects. The terminal elimination half-life increased by 18%, 41%, and 95% in subjects with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment, respectively. According to the manufacturer, no dosage adjustment is recommended for patients with mild and moderate renal impairment; however, the dosage should be reduced in those with severe renal impairment.
Geriatric
Memantine pharmacokinetics do not appear to be affected by the age of the patient. In the elderly, renal impairment results in decreased clearance of memantine and increased AUC, corresponding with decreasing values of creatinine clearance (CrCl).
Gender Differences
Following multiple doses of memantine 20 mg/day, females had approximately a 45% higher exposure than males, but no differences were noted after adjustments for body weight.