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)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

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.

When Used for Treatment of Patients Diagnosed with Alzheimer Disease