Memantine/donepezil

Memantine/donepezil is a combination drug used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. It contains two active ingredients: memantine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, and donepezil, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor.

Pharmacology

Memantine is a noncompetitive NMDA receptor antagonist that works by blocking the effects of excessive levels of glutamate that may lead to neuronal dysfunction. It is believed to reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease by protecting nerve cells in the brain.

Donepezil is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that works by increasing the levels of a chemical called acetylcholine in the brain, which can help improve mental function.

Clinical Use

Memantine/donepezil is used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease in patients who are intolerant of or have not responded to other therapies. It is not a cure for Alzheimer's disease, but it can help to improve memory, awareness, and the ability to perform daily functions.

Side Effects

Common side effects of memantine/donepezil include dizziness, headache, confusion, constipation, and agitation. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as an irregular heartbeat, severe nausea, and seizures.

Contraindications

Memantine/donepezil should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to memantine, donepezil, piperidine derivatives, or to any of the excipients used in the formulation. It should also be used with caution in patients with severe renal impairment, a history of cardiac disease, or a history of peptic ulcers.

See Also

• Alzheimer's disease
• Memantine
• Donepezil