Donepezil Hydrochloride/Memantine Hydrochloride Extended Release

**Semantic type:** Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** A fixed combination of the hydrochloride salt form of donepezil and an extended-release (ER) formulation of the hydrochloride salt form of memantine, that may potentially enhance neurocognitive function and may be used for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Upon oral administration, donepezil reversibly inhibits acetylcholinesterase. This blocks the hydrolysis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, increases its concentration, and enhances cholinergic neurotransmission and function. Memantine, a low to moderate affinity, voltage-dependent, noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, binds to and inhibits glutamatergic NMDA receptor-operated cation channels located in the central nervous system (CNS). This prevents the prolonged influx of calcium ions and the associated neuronal excitotoxicity. Donepezil and memantine may improve neurocognitive function in Alzheimer's disease, and may potentially improve neurocognitive function in patients who have received radiation therapy for primary brain tumors or brain metastases.

**Synonyms:** - Namzaric