Apoaequorin - Namenda (Memantine Hydrochloride) Interaction
Herbal: Apoaequorin
Also Known As: Prevagen
Drug: Memantine Hydrochloride
Brand names:
Namenda
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 26, 2024
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Memantine Hydrochloride and Apoaequorin. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Pharmacist Analysis
Based on the current research available, apoaequorin, the protein derived from jellyfish that is the active ingredient in Prevagen, is not known to interact with any drugs.
This lack of interactions is likely due to the fact that apoaequorin is a relatively small and simple protein that does not have any known drug-binding sites or enzymatic activity.
Additionally, safety studies in animals have shown that even very large doses of apoaequorin don't appear to affect any organs or blood chemistry.
However, overall, there is limited data on its potential interactions with other drugs.
If someone is taking apoaequorin as a dietary supplement, they should still consult with a healthcare professional before starting to take it, especially if they are currently taking any medications or have any underlying medical conditions.
As with any dietary supplement, it is important to follow recommended dosages and to use it only as directed.
References
- Subchronic toxicity of lyophilized apoaequorin protein powder in Sprague-Dawley rats. Sage Journals
- Safety assessment of Apoaequorin, a protein preparation: subchronic toxicity study in rats. PubMed
Safe With Namenda (Memantine)?
Prevagen is a dietary supplement that is marketed to improve cognitive function by regulating calcium through a protein called apoaequorin.
On the other hand, Namenda (memantine) works by blocking excess activity of the neurotransmitter glutamate in the brain to treat symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
Despite the difference in their mechanisms of action, there is currently no known interaction between Prevagen and Namenda.
Additionally, Prevagen is not believed to have any impact on the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes, which are responsible for breaking down drugs like Namenda in the liver.
However, it is important to note that there is limited clinical evidence regarding the safety of Prevagen with other drugs, including Namenda.
Therefore, it is advisable for individuals who are considering taking Prevagen or any other dietary supplement to consult with their healthcare provider to discuss the potential benefits and risks, particularly if they are already taking Namenda or any other medication for cognitive impairment.
- Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmDApoaequorin Overview
Apoaequorin is a small protein that comes from a type of jellyfish called Aequorea victoria. This protein has 196 amino acid residues and can glow blue when it is attached to calcium. Scientists have used this glowing property to study how calcium works inside cells.
Apoaequorin is the active ingredient in the memory-boosting supplement Prevagen.
Research suggests that calcium dysregulation may contribute to age-related declines in brain function, as high levels of calcium in neuronal cells can eventually cause those cells to die. Apoaequorin, due to its similarity in structure to human calcium-binding proteins, is purported to be able to regulate calcium homeostasis and slow down age-related declines in memory and cognitive function. However, this has not been shown conclusively in clinical studies and more research is needed.
Memantine Hydrochloride Overview
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Memantine is used to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (AD; a brain disease that slowly destroys the memory and the ability to think, learn, communicate and handle daily activities). Memantine is in a class of medications called NMDA receptor antagonists. It works by decreasing abnormal activity in the brain. Memantine may improve the ability to think and remember or may slow the loss of these abilities in people who have AD. However, memantine will not cure AD or prevent the loss of these abilities at some time in the future.
Apoaequorin - More Interactions
Apoaequorin interacts with 0 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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