What is this medication for?
Galantamine belongs to the family of medications called cholinesterase inhibitors. It is used to treat symptoms of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.
Although the exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is not well understood, it is thought to involve the degeneration of certain nerve cells in the brain that make a chemical called acetylcholine. This chemical is thought to be important for the processes of learning and memory. Galantamine prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine, thereby increasing its levels in the brain. Galantamine is of the most benefit in mild to moderate disease and is of little benefit when the disease becomes severe.
Galantamine may improve cognitive function (memory, orientation, and language) and general ability to perform activities of daily living.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Razadyne® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The usual recommended starting dose of galantamine tablets and oral solution is 4 mg twice daily. After at least four weeks of treatment, the dose may be increased to 8 mg twice a day. After at least four more weeks of treatment, the dose may be increased further, to 12 mg twice a day. Galantamine tablets and
oral solution should be taken with the morning and evening meals.
The usual recommended starting dose of galantamine extended-release capsules is 8 mg once daily. After at least four weeks of treatment, the dose may be increased to 16 mg once daily. After at least four more weeks of treatment, the dose may be increased further, to 24 mg once daily. Galantamine extended-release capsules should be taken with the morning meal.
People with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers should be aware that, if treatment has been interrupted for several days or longer, this medication should be restarted at the lowest dose and then increased to the most current dose. Be sure to consult your doctor before restarting this medication yourself.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
