Asked by Mindy Gracie Butler on Jun 15, 2024

verifed

Verified

When used for treatment of patients diagnosed with Alzheimer disease, which medication would be expected to antagonize N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) channels rather than cholinesterase?

A) Donepezil (Aricept)
B) Rivastigmine (Exelon)
C) Memantine (Namenda)
D) Galantamine (Razadyne)

N-Methyl-D-Aspartate

A chemical compound that acts as a specific receptor for the neurotransmitter glutamate, playing a role in brain functions like learning and memory.

Cholinesterase

An enzyme necessary for the proper functioning of the nervous system, breaking down neurotransmitters like acetylcholine.

Memantine

A medication primarily used in the management of Alzheimer's disease by acting on the glutamatergic system.

  • Gain insight into the physiological and pathological transformations associated with Alzheimer's disease and different dementias.
  • Assess the impact of pharmaceutical treatments on individuals suffering from cognitive impairments.
verifed

Verified Answer

SA
Sulyka AbukarJun 20, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
Memantine blocks the NMDA channels and is used in moderate-to-late stages of the disease. Donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine are all cholinesterase inhibitors. These drugs increase the availability of acetylcholine and are most often used to treat mild-to-moderate Alzheimer disease.