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