COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Namenda
GENERIC NAME(S): MEMANTINE HCL
Description: Memantine, a derivative of amantadine, is a noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-receptor antagonist. It affects transmission of glutamate, the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the CNS. Glutamate may contribute to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease by overstimulating various glutamate receptors resulting in excitotoxicity and neuronal cell death.
Pharmacokinetics:
Absorption: Well absorbed (oral); peak plasma concentrations in about 3-8 hr.
Distribution: Protein-binding: Approx 45%.
Metabolism: Partial hepatic metabolism; main metabolites are N-3,5-dimethyl-gludantan and 1-nitroso-3,5-dimethyl-adamantane.
Excretion: Via urine (unchanged; some active renal tubular secretion and reabsorption occurs). 60-100 hr (terminal half-life).