[Use of memantine in progressive glaucoma. Case report].

BACKGROUND

Several animal models demonstrated that NMDA-receptor antagonists like memantine inhibit the excitotoxic action of glutamate in glaucoma. Furthermore, this also enables to slow down the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells. In the following case report we investigated the use and tolerability of memantine in a glaucoma patient.

PATIENT AND METHODS

We report on a 73-year old male with progressive glaucoma damage. Treatment with memantine à 20 mg/d lasted for 6 months and was preceded by one week à 10 mg/d. Follow-ups with perimetry and VEP were performed at beginning and 2, 4, 6 and 12 months after.

RESULTS

The first control showed an improvement of perimetry. The following examinations demonstrated a stabilization of perimetry and VEP. Because of side-effects there was no tolerability of a higher dose of memantine à 30 mg/d or continuation of the therapy after 6 months.

CONCLUSION

Memantine seems to be neuroprotective in glaucoma patients. At present a multicentric study is under way. More results may be expected shortly.