Black and white photo of a man wearing glasses, taking a selfie with a smartphone. He is in an indoor setting with visible modern decor.

RESEARCH SHOWS MEMANTINE CAN TREAT SICKLE CELL DISEASE

+

THE NEED FOR MEMANTINE

A graphic of the African continent inside a red circle on the left side of a black and red background

The world needs a treatment for sickle cell diseases that is accessible, effective and cheap.

In 2021, an estimated 7.74 million people were living with sickle-cell disease globally

with sub-Saharan Africa accounting for nearly 80% of global cases

A black screen featuring white text: 'You Are at' followed by a globe icon.

+

WHAT IS MEMANTINE?

Originally used for Alzheimer’s disease Memantine protects blood cells from the inside out to prevent sickling.

Abstract red and beige fluid art with bubbles and swirling textures.

MEMANTINE: Cost per dose: 30 cents

Red circular medical emergency or healthcare icon with a black square outline containing a white cross in the center.

Easy to
store

A digital icon of a red circle with black pill-like and tablet-like shapes inside, representing medication or pills.

Easy to
dose

Red circle icon with a black location pin symbol in the center.

Easy to Transport

+

MEMANTINE BENEFITS

A recent MeMAGEN clinical trial found that memantine was safe and well tolerated in both children and adults with SCD with only mild side effects reported. In children, the results were particularly encouraging, showing a significant reduction in the number of days spent in hospital.

The study also found improvements in red blood cell health. Memantine reduced potassium “leakage” and improved cell hydration, an important outcome, as dehydration causes these cells to sickle and block blood flow. Memantine may also help address the cognitive difficulties often associated with SCD. 

Memantine is a drug that has been used for 30 years in the treatment of Alzheimer’s.

We know that it is safe and that it is effective in the management of Sickle Cell Disease. So why aren’t we using Memantine?

+

READ THE EVIDENCE

The image is a black grid with white lines forming squares, no other objects or details are visible.

MeMAGEN: A Phase IIa/IIb open‐label trial of memantine testing safety and tolerability in sickle cell patients 

EXPERIENCE HOW MEMANTINE WORKS

FOR INFORMATION ON TRYING MEMANTINE