What is the brand name for Memantine?
The brand name for Memantine is Namenda.
PTCE Top 200 · #145
Memantine
Namenda
Memantine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Namenda. It is a nmda receptor antagonist (dementia) used to treat moderate-severe dementia. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Memantine ranks #145 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Memantine |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Namenda |
| Drug class | NMDA receptor antagonist (dementia) |
| Class group | CNS/Psych |
| Common use | moderate-severe dementia |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Memantine used for?
Treatment of moderate-to-severe dementia of the Alzheimer's type (NMDA receptor antagonist).
What drug class is Memantine?
Memantine is a NMDA receptor antagonist (dementia) in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Memantine
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightConstipation
- arrow_rightConfusion
- arrow_rightHypertension
Major interactions
- arrow_rightOther NMDA antagonists (amantadine, ketamine, dextromethorphan) → additive CNS effects
- arrow_rightUrine alkalinizers (e.g., carbonic anhydrase inhibitors) may reduce clearance
Is Memantine a controlled substance?
No. Memantine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Memantine (PTCE mnemonic)
NAM-enda NAMes things again — MEMantine is NMDA antagonist for moderate-severe dementia. 'Memory maintainer'; dizziness, confusion, constipation; renal dose-adjust.
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PTCE exam tip
Memantine's NMDA mechanism pairs with — not replaces — donepezil in moderate-to-severe dementia; the Namzaric combo makes ingredient-identification questions easy to write.
Memantine FAQ
What is Memantine used for?
Memantine is used to treat moderate-severe dementia. Treatment of moderate-to-severe dementia of the Alzheimer's type (NMDA receptor antagonist).
What drug class is Memantine?
Memantine is a NMDA receptor antagonist (dementia) (CNS/Psych group).
Is Memantine a controlled substance?
No. Memantine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Drill Memantine the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).