Memantine is commonly used for which stage of dementia?

• A. Mild
• B. Moderate
• C. Moderate to Severe
• D. Severe

Answer: (C)

Memantine is used in moderate to severe dementia to help slow progression and support daily functioning when the disease has advanced beyond the mild stage. It works by modulating glutamate activity in the brain through NMDA receptor antagonism, which helps protect neurons from excitotoxic damage that can worsen cognition and behavior. Clinically, it’s often added when symptoms persist or decline despite cholinesterase inhibitors or used as part of combination therapy. The benefit is modest and variable, not a cure, and its effectiveness is best established in the moderate to severe phases rather than the mild stage, where evidence is limited. Monitor for side effects such as dizziness, confusion, headache, or constipation, and adjust for kidney function as needed.