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 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.
Female
Age ≥ 18 years at the time of consent.
Stage I-III Breast Cancer
Recommended chemotherapy
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
UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
Lead sponsor
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Collaborator