NCIt definition : A low-affinity, voltage-dependent, noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor
antagonist. Memantine binds to and inhibits cation channels of glutamanergic NMDA
receptors located in the central nervous system (CNS), preventing the prolonged influx
of calcium ions and the associated neuronal excitotoxicity, and thereby potentially
enhancing cognitive function. Memantine is also a 5-hydroxytryptamine type 3 (5HT3)
receptor and nicotinic receptor antagonist.;