Galantamine - Benefits, dosage and side effects

Galantamine is a drug to relieve symptoms of dementia, such as decreased memory or thinking skills, in people with Alzheimer's disease

Galantamine belongs to the type of acetylcholinesterase enzyme inhibitor drug. This drug works by increasing acetylcholine, a chemical compound in the brain that plays an important role in memory or thinking (cognitive) abilities.

Please note that galantamine cannot cure Alzheimer's disease, but it can slow the progression of symptoms.

Galantamine trademark: Reminyl

What is Galantamine

Class	Prescription drugs
Categories	Cholinesterase inhibitors
Benefits	Relieve symptoms of Alzheimer's disease
Consumed by	Adult
Galantamine for pregnant and lactating women	Category C: Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. It is not known whether galantamine can be absorbed into breast milk or not. Breastfeeding mothers are advised to consult a doctor before using this drug.
Medicine form	Slow-release capsules, tablets, syrup

Warning Before Taking Galantamine

Before taking this medicine, you need to pay attention to the following things:

• Do not use galantamine if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
• Tell your doctor if you have or are currently suffering from asthma, COPD, heart rhythm disorders, stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, epilepsy, seizures, kidney disease, or liver disease.
• Tell your doctor if you recently had surgery on your stomach, intestines or digestive tract.
• Tell your doctor if you are taking any medications, supplements or herbal products.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
• See your doctor immediately if you have an allergic reaction, serious side effects, or overdose after taking galantamine.

Galantamine Dosage and Instructions

Galantamine should only be used as directed by a doctor. The following are common doses of galantamine used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease based on the form of the drug:

• Form of medicine: Tablets and syrupInitial dose is 4 mg, 2 times a day for 4 weeks. Thereafter, the dose may be increased to 8 mg, 2 times daily for at least 4 weeks. The dose can be increased again to 12 mg, 2 times a day according to the patient's body response to the drug.

• Form of medicine: CapsulesInitial dose is 8 mg, once a day for 4 weeks. Thereafter, the dose may be increased to 16 mg, once daily for 4 weeks. The dose can be increased again to 24 mg once a day, according to the patient's response to the drug.

How to Take Galantamine Correctly

Follow the doctor's advice and read the information on the medicine package before taking galantamine. Do not reduce or increase the dose without consulting your doctor first.

Galantamine can be taken with food. Try to take galantamine at the same time every day for maximum treatment.

To take galantamine syrup, use the measuring device provided on the medicine package or given by the doctor. Do not use other measuring tools or tablespoons, because the dose may not be as prescribed.

Galantamine slow-release capsules should be taken in the morning after breakfast. Swallow the slow-release capsule whole with the help of a glass of water. Do not crush, chew or open capsules.

It is recommended to drink 6-8 glasses of water every day while taking galantamine. This is done to avoid dehydration and stomach upset that can occur while taking this drug.

Keep taking this medicine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

If you forget to take galantamine, it is recommended to take it immediately if the gap between the next consumption schedule is not too close. If it's close, ignore it and don't double the dose.

Store galantamine in a dry place and avoid direct sunlight. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.

Interaction of Galantamine with Other Drugs

The following are some of the effects of drug interactions that can occur when galantamine is used with other drugs:

• Increased risk of seizures when used with bupropion, iohexol, or tramadol
• Increased levels or effectiveness of galantamine when used with quinidine, paroxetine, fluoxetine, ketoconazole, atropine, chlorpeniramine ritonavir, or erythromycin
• Increased cholinergic effect or decreased heart rate when used with donepezil, neostigmine, pyridostigmine, rivastigmine, or pilocarpine

Side Effects and Dangers of Galantamine

Some of the side effects that can occur after taking galantamine are:

• Dizzy
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite or loss of appetite
• Tremor
• Depression

Consult your doctor if the side effects above do not subside immediately or are getting worse. You need to see a doctor immediately if you experience an allergic reaction to a drug or a more serious side effect, such as:

• Shortness of breath
• Slow or irregular heartbeat
• Seizure
• Vomiting blood, coughing up blood, or bloody stools
• Fainted
• Difficult urination
• Jaundice, dark urine, or severe stomach pain