Memantine and Exercise to Improve Cognitive Function and Modulate Biological Pathways of Cognitive Decline During Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer

Summary

This randomized, placebo-controlled trial aims to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of memantine and the University of Carolina (UNC)'s Get Real \& Heel cancer exercise program (MEM+EX) in addressing cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) and underlying CRCI biomarkers. Ninety stage I-III breast cancer patients with mild cognitive difficulties during chemotherapy will be randomized into three groups: MEM+EX, memantine, or placebo. The study will evaluate recruitment, retention, adherence, acceptability, cognitive function, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), inflammatory markers, and frailty at multiple time points.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

In order to participate in the study a subject must meet all of the eligibility criteria outlined below.

* Female
* Age ≥ 50 years at the time of consent.
* Stage I-III Breast Cancer
* Recommended chemotherapy
* Enroll prior to 3rd cycle of chemotherapy
* Completed at least 1 cycle of standard-of-care neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy
* At least mild self-reported cognitive concerns ≥3 on a 0-10 scale
* English-speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

* Allergy to memantine
* Previous chemotherapy (prior to the current regimen),
* Severe cognitive impairment, defined by Blessed Orientation Memory Concentration Test Score ≥11
* Myocardial infarction in the last 6 months
* Cardiovascular or orthopedic limitations to exercise
* Severe mental illness (i.e., schizophrenia or bipolar affective disorder)
* Current alcohol or drug abuse
* Inability to swallow capsules \</= 5mL/min
* CrCl \</= 5mL/min

Conditions9

Locations1 site

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