Galantamine

Generic name: galantamine
Brand names: Razadyne, Razadyne ER, Reminyl
Drug class: Cholinesterase inhibitors
Dosage form: capsule, tablet
Root of administration: oral
Dose: extended release (16 mg; 24 mg; 8 mg), oral solution (4 mg/mL), oral tablet (12 mg; 4 mg; 8 mg)
Mechanism of action: Galantamine improves the function of nerve cells in the brain. It works by preventing the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine (ah see til KO leen). People with dementia usually have lower levels of this chemical, which is important for the processes of memory, thinking, and reasoning.
Drug usage cases: Galantamine is used to treat mild to moderate Alzheimer’s type dementia. Galantamine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Drug contraindications: You should not use galantamine if you are allergic to it. To make sure galantamine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• urination problems
• heart disease or a heart rhythm disorder
• a history of stomach ulcer or bleeding
• seizures or epilepsy
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• a history of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Side effects: Galantamine may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• chest pain, slow heart rate;
• little or no urinating;
• blood in your urine;
• signs of stomach bleeding–bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;
• liver problems–nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
• dehydration symptoms–feeling very thirsty or hot, being unable to urinate, heavy sweating, or hot and dry skin;
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; or
• severe skin reaction–fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.

Warnings: Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: It is not known whether galantamine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether galantamine passes into breast milk or if it could affect the nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding.