Memantine is a drug that is available by prescription and is FDA approved for use in Alzheimer’s disease.

It works as a glutamate receptor blocker and thereby is thought to decrease toxic nerve injury caused by increased glutamate stimulation that occurs in nerve cells damaged in Huntington’s (and Alzheimer’s).

Research shows that the brain cells damaged in HD are uniquely susceptible to excess glutamate stimulation and that the addition of memantine decreases this injury (Dubinsky et al, 2004). An open label pilot study from Europe in HD people showed slowing of progression with most benefit occurring in the second year of medication (Gerlach, et al, 2004).

not specified, check with your doctor

Dizziness, headache, constipation and confusion have all been reported, but most people find this drug relatively free of side effects.

J. Dubinsky, et al, Experimental Neurology 189. 2. 2004
M.Gerlach, J. Neural Transm (2004) [Supp] 68: 117-122