Memantine-associated hyperkalaemia in a patient with Alzheimer's disease

Psychogeriatrics. 2013 Sep;13(3):180-1. doi: 10.1111/psyg.12022.

Abstract

Memantine is an N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptor antagonist that may improve cognitive functions in patients with Alzheimer's disease. It is predominantly excreted unchanged via the kidneys, and patients with decreased creatinine clearance must be treated with lower doses of memantine. However, it is unclear whether memantine itself can lead to renal dysfunction and/or hyperkalaemia. We report a patient with renal impairment and hyperkalaemia possibly associated with memantine administration.

Keywords: Alzheimer's disease; hyperkalaemia; memantine; renal impairment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Alzheimer Disease / blood
  • Alzheimer Disease / drug therapy*
  • Blood Urea Nitrogen
  • Creatinine / blood
  • Excitatory Amino Acid Antagonists / adverse effects*
  • Excitatory Amino Acid Antagonists / blood
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperkalemia / blood
  • Hyperkalemia / chemically induced*
  • Kidney / drug effects
  • Memantine / adverse effects*
  • Memantine / blood

Substances

  • Excitatory Amino Acid Antagonists
  • Creatinine
  • Memantine