naltrexone + memantine

Naltrexone + memantine is a combination drug composed of naltrexone, an opioid receptor antagonist, and memantine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist. This combination targets both the opioid and glutamate neurotransmitter systems, which play important roles in alcohol drinking behaviors. Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors to reduce the rewarding effects of alcohol, while memantine modulates glutamatergic signaling by antagonizing NMDA receptors. Clinical studies have shown that adding memantine (20 mg/day) to naltrexone (50 mg/day) enhances efficacy in reducing alcohol consumption and craving compared to naltrexone alone among heavy drinkers with a family history of alcoholism. The beneficial effects appear to persist even after discontinuation of memantine treatment. This combination is primarily investigated for treating alcohol use disorder.

Other names

naltrexone + memantine