Narrative review demonstrates neuroprotective and analgesic actions of memantine in peripheral neuropathies, indicating broad therapeutic potential beyond Alzheimer's disease.
Key Points
To synthesize preclinical and clinical evidence on the neuroprotective and modulatory mechanisms of memantine in the peripheral nervous system and evaluate drug repurposing opportunities.
Narrative synthesis of preclinical mechanistic studies and clinical trials evaluating memantine actions on peripheral sensory and autonomic neurons, Schwann cells, and retinal ganglion cells.
Evaluated pathological pathways including excitotoxic calcium influx, oxidative injury, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptotic signaling, and neuroinflammation.
Clinical evidence highlights a five-fold reduction in post-mastectomy neuropathic pain with pre-emptive administration, alongside reduced phantom limb pain intensity at six months and enhanced diabetic neuropathy management combined with gabapentin.