Merz + Co's neramexane [MRZ 2/579], an amino-alkyl-cyclohexane, is a noncompetitive NMDA receptor antagonist. It is currently in phase II clinical development in Germany, and may be developed for alcohol-dependence, chronic pain and neuroprotection. In July 2001, it was announced that Forest Laboratories has entered into a license agreement with Merz + Co for the development and marketing of neramexane in the USA.Figure. Neramexane