ATC Group: N06DX Other anti-dementia drugs

The exact mechanism of action of ginkgo biloba is not known. Human pharmacological data show increased EEG vigilance in geriatric subjects, reduction in blood viscosity and improved cerebral perfusion in specific areas in healthy men (60-70 years) and reduction in platelet aggregation. Additionally, vasodilating effects on forearm blood vessels causing increased regional blood flow are shown.

Lecanemab is a humanized immunoglobulin gamma 1 (IgG1) monoclonal antibody directed against aggregated soluble and insoluble forms of amyloid beta. The accumulation of amyloid beta plaques in the brain is a defining pathophysiological feature of Alzheimer’s disease. Lecanemab reduces amyloid beta plaques, as evaluated in studies.

Memantine is a voltage-dependent, moderate-affinity uncompetitive NMDA-receptor antagonist. It modulates the effects of pathologically elevated tonic levels of glutamate that may lead to neuronal dysfunction.