Galantamine is a medication 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.
It should be noted that galantamine cannot cure Alzheimer's disease, but it can slow the progression of symptoms.
Galantamine trademark:Reminyl
What is Galantamine
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Cholinesterase inhibitors |
| Benefit | Relieve the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease |
| Consumed by | Mature |
| 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 medicine. |
| Drug form | Slow-release capsules, tablets, syrup |
Warnings Before Taking Galantamine
Before taking this drug, you need to pay attention to the following:
- 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 have had asthma, COPD, heart rhythm disturbances, 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 right away if you have an allergic drug reaction, serious side effect, or overdose after taking galantamine.
Galantamine Dosage and Usage
Galantamine should only be used as directed by a doctor. The following are common doses of galantamine in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease based on the form of the drug:
- Drug form: Tablets and syrup
Initial dose 4 mg, 2 times daily 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.
- Drug form: Capsule
Initial dose is 8 mg, once daily 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 daily, according to the patient's response to the drug.
How to Take Galantamine Correctly
Follow the doctor's recommendations and read the information listed on the drug packaging 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 provided by a doctor. Do not use other measuring devices or tablespoons, because the dose may not be as prescribed.
Galantamine sustained 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 the capsules.
It is recommended to drink 6-8 glasses of water every day while taking galantamine. This is done to avoid dehydration and stomach pain 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 advisable to take it immediately if the break with the next consumption schedule is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose.
Store galantamine in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
Galantamine Interactions 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
Galantamine Side Effects and Dangers
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 a doctor if the side effects above do not subside immediately or are actually getting worse. You need to see a doctor immediately if you experience an allergic drug reaction or more serious side effects, such as:
- Hard to breathe
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Seizures
- Vomiting blood, coughing up blood, or bloody stools
- Faint
- Difficult to urinate
- Jaundice, dark urine, or severe stomach pain
