Memantine for the treatment of frontotemporal dementia: a meta-analysis

Background: There is no conclusive evidence supporting the efficacy of memantine in frontotemporal dementia (FTD). We conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis of memantine concerning the efficacy and tolerability of memantine in FTD. Methods: Studies were identified through searches of PubMed, databases of the Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO citations up to April 10, 2015. Outcomes were Clinical Global Impression (primary), Mini-Mental State Examination, Neuropsychiatric Inventory, and Zarit Burden Interview scores as well as all-cause discontinuation. Standardized mean difference and risk ratio with 95% confidence interval were calculated. Results: Two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (total n=130) met the inclusion criteria. Memantine was marginally superior to placebo as assessed by the Clinical Global Impression scores (standardized mean difference =-0.34, 95% confidence interval =-0.68-0.01, P=0.06). However, there were no significant differences in Mini-Mental State Examination, Neuropsychiatric Inventory, and Zarit Burden Interview scores as well as all-cause discontinuation between memantine and placebo. Conclusion: Our results suggest that memantine may benefit FTD patients. However, because only two randomized controlled trials have addressed this issue, further studies using larger samples are needed.