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Alzheimer's disease

Prescribing Memantine in General Practice in England: A Study Reveals Gaps in Knowledge and Confidence Among GPs

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A recent mixed-methods study conducted by researchers at the University of Exeter Medical School has highlighted concerning gaps in knowledge and confidence among general practitioners (GPs) in England when it comes to prescribing memantine for patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The study, published in BJGP Open in 2025, aimed to assess prescribing practices for AD in general practice and identify factors influencing prescribing decisions.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that only 46% of GPs surveyed were aware of current national guidance concerning memantine, a medication commonly prescribed for moderate-to-severe AD.
  • Many GPs (less than half) were confident in identifying AD stages and developing care plans for moderate-to-severe AD, indicating a need for additional education and training.
  • Interviews with GPs revealed that local formularies often conflicted with national guidance, leading to confusion and inconsistent prescribing practices.
  • The study identified barriers to changing practice, including limited time, patchy support, and downgrading of Quality and Outcomes Framework, which contributed to a perception that dementia was not prioritized in general practice.
  • GPs reported feeling inadequate in their ability to diagnosis and treat AD, citing the need for clear local pathways that reflect national guidance.

Statistics:

  • 104 GPs participated in the online survey, with 46% expressing unawareness of current national guidance concerning memantine.
  • 23 GPs participated in semi-structured interviews, which largely concurred with survey findings.
  • Only 55% of survey responders were confident in identifying AD stages, while 71% were unsure about developing care plans for moderate-to-severe AD.
  • 80% of GPs reported feeling inadequately prepared to diagnose and treat AD.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Researchers at University of Exeter Medical School Release New Data on Alzheimer Disease (Prescribing memantine in general practice in England: a mixed-methods study). Pain & Central Nervous System Week. October 20, 2025; p 3891.
  • Prescribing memantine in general practice in England: a mixed-methods study. BJGP Open, 2025.

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