MEMANTINE Meaning and
Definition
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Memantine is a pharmaceutical drug used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. It belongs to the class of medications called NMDA receptor antagonists. Memantine works by regulating the activity of glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning processes, in the brain.
The primary mode of action of memantine involves blocking the NMDA receptors, which are responsible for the excessive release of glutamate in Alzheimer's disease patients. By doing so, it helps to reduce the toxic effect of excess glutamate, which can lead to neurodegeneration and cognitive decline.
Memantine is prescribed to individuals with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease to improve cognitive function, memory, and behavioral symptoms. It is typically used in combination with other medications like cholinesterase inhibitors, which work through a different mechanism to enhance cognitive function.
The dosage of memantine is typically started low and gradually increased to minimize the risk of side effects. It is available in various formulations, including tablets, capsules, and oral solutions, allowing for flexible dosing options.
Some common side effects of memantine may include dizziness, headache, constipation, and confusion. However, these effects are generally mild and transient.
It is important to note that memantine is not a cure for Alzheimer's disease but can help manage the symptoms and slow down the progression of the condition. The effectiveness of memantine may vary from person to person, and its usage should be supervised by a healthcare professional.
Common Misspellings for MEMANTINE
Etymology of MEMANTINE
The word "Memantine" comes from a combination of two parts: "mem" and "antine".
The "mem" part originates from the word "memoria", which is Latin for memory. It is also related to the Greek word "mneme", which means memory as well.
The "antine" part is derived from the suffix "-antine", which is commonly used to denote substances that have antagonistic or inhibitory effects on specific receptors or actions in the body. It is characteristic of certain drug names.
Therefore, "Memantine" is a compound word that signifies a substance or drug related to memory or memory-related processes.
Similar spelling words for MEMANTINE
