In the treatment of Alzheimer disease, which pharmacologic treatment is known for its neuroprotective qualities?

Memantine is recognized for its neuroprotective qualities in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. It is an NMDA receptor antagonist, which helps modulate the activity of glutamate, an important neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory. In Alzheimer's disease, excessive activation of NMDA receptors by glutamate can lead to neuronal damage and cell death. By blocking this receptor, memantine can help reduce excitotoxicity, thereby providing neuroprotective effects and assisting in the preservation of cognitive function.

In addition to its neuroprotective properties, memantine is typically used for moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease and can be combined with cholinesterase inhibitors for an enhanced therapeutic effect. Its unique mechanism of action differentiates it from other drugs used to treat Alzheimer's, which primarily focus on symptom management rather than neuroprotection.

While donepezil is effective for symptomatic management by increasing acetylcholine levels, it does not offer the same level of neuroprotection. Selegiline is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor primarily used in Parkinson's disease, and although it may have some neuroprotective effects, it isn't a standard treatment for Alzheimer's. Vitamin E, though studied for its antioxidant properties, has inconsistent evidence regarding its role in Alzheimer's management and is not primarily