My working memory has decreased during the last few years (I am 83)
The incredible shrinking brain is probably partially responsible.
Because I am a little bit lazy, I think I’ll take a pill
Memantine
"Mechanisms of Action
Donepezil Hydrochloride
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (AChEI)
Enhances cholinergic neurotransmission by increasing acetylcholine levels in the brain ([1])
Memantine Hydrochloride
N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist
Modulates glutamatergic activity in the brain"
“Both medications provide modest improvements in cognition and activities of daily living”
Some evidence suggests AChEIs may have neuroprotective properties and could potentially modify disease progression.
Memantine may also have neuroprotective effects.
Generally well-tolerated"
The literature that came with it said it was best taken at bedtime.
I took my first dose last night (split the 20 mg tablet in half), providing 5 mg of each.
This is the recommended dose to start with before titrating up to the whole 20 mg tablet.
Seems to have had some effect the very first night as I had colorful and vivid dreams and I actually remembered them after I woke up. I will see if I get a repeat performance tonight.
Last time I checked this it improves working memory but I don’t know if it’s task-related performance. No general intelligence changes, that’s pretty much hard set genetically + environment. Cognitive decline might be best handled in other ways.
I tried daily Dual n-back training more than a decade ago and did improve a lot at the Dual n-back test but I can’t say I notice any differences in other areas. AFAIK the benefits are task specific and don’t really translate to an overall improvement in working memory.