Could a common Alzheimer's drug help stroke survivors move again?

NCT ID NCT02144584

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This pilot study is testing whether memantine, a drug already used for Alzheimer's, can improve arm and leg function after an ischemic stroke. Twenty participants with arm weakness will receive either memantine or a placebo for several weeks. The study measures motor skills and tracks any side effects to see if the drug is safe and worth studying further.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

memantine (Namenda XR)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a treatment to help people regain movement after a stroke.

What could go wrong

This is a very early, small pilot study with only 20 people. It is designed to test feasibility, not prove effectiveness, so results may not lead to a new treatment.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

ischemic stroke Paresis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Utah

    Salt Lake City, Utah, 84132, United States