Galantamine
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Cholinesterase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Galantamine
Summary
Galantamine is primarily used to treat mild to moderate dementia in patients with Alzheimer's disease. It helps manage symptoms like memory loss, confusion, and difficulties with thinking and reasoning.
Galantamine works by inhibiting an enzyme called acetylcholinesterase, which breaks down a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine in the brain. By preventing this breakdown, Galantamine increases levels of acetylcholine, which is important for memory and cognitive function, thus helping improve communication between nerve cells in the brain.
The usual daily dose for adults with Alzheimer's disease starts at 8 mg per day, which can be increased to a maintenance dose of 16 mg per day after at least 4 weeks. A further increase to 24 mg per day may be considered based on clinical benefit and tolerability. Galantamine is not recommended for use in children.
Common side effects of Galantamine include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and decreased appetite. Serious adverse effects can include difficulty urinating, seizures, slowed heartbeat, fainting, and serious skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Galantamine should not be used in patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment. It may cause serious skin reactions, so discontinue use if a rash appears. Caution is advised for patients with cardiovascular conditions as Galantamine can cause bradycardia and heart block. It should be used carefully in patients with a history of seizures, asthma, or obstructive pulmonary disease. Patients should avoid alcohol and be cautious when driving or operating machinery due to potential drowsiness and dizziness.
Indications and Purpose
How does Galantamine work?
Galantamine works by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which breaks down acetylcholine in the brain. By preventing this breakdown, Galantamine increases the levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter important for memory and cognitive function. This helps improve communication between nerve cells in the brain, which can enhance memory and cognitive abilities in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Is Galantamine effective?
The effectiveness of Galantamine in treating Alzheimer's disease is supported by several randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials. These studies have shown that Galantamine can improve cognitive performance, as measured by the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS-cog), and produce an overall clinical effect, as assessed by the Clinician’s Interview Based Impression of Change (CIBIC-plus). The trials demonstrate that Galantamine can help improve memory, orientation, attention, reasoning, language, and daily living activities in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.
What is Galantamine?
Galantamine is used to treat symptoms of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. It works by increasing the amount of acetylcholine, a natural substance in the brain that is needed for memory and thought. As an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, Galantamine helps improve cognitive function and slow the progression of symptoms in Alzheimer's patients. However, it does not cure the disease or prevent future mental decline.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Galantamine?
Galantamine is typically used for as long as it provides therapeutic benefits and is well-tolerated by the patient. The treatment is usually continued as long as the patient shows improvement or stabilization in symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Regular assessments by a healthcare provider are necessary to determine the ongoing need for the medication.
How do I take Galantamine?
Galantamine should be taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. The tablets and liquid are usually taken twice a day with morning and evening meals, while the extended-release capsules are taken once daily in the morning. Ensure adequate fluid intake during treatment. There are no specific food restrictions, but it is advisable to avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness.
How long does it take for Galantamine to start working?
Galantamine may start to show effects within a few weeks of starting treatment, but it can take up to several months to see the full benefits. Regular assessments by a healthcare provider are necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
How should I store Galantamine?
Store Galantamine in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Keep it at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture, and do not freeze it. Ensure that the medication is stored in a safe location, out of sight and reach of children, to prevent accidental ingestion.
What is the usual dose of Galantamine?
The usual daily dose for adults with Alzheimer's disease starts at 8 mg per day, which can be increased to a maintenance dose of 16 mg per day after at least 4 weeks. A further increase to 24 mg per day may be considered based on clinical benefit and tolerability. Galantamine is not recommended for use in children as its safety and effectiveness have not been established in the pediatric population.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Galantamine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no data on the presence of Galantamine in human milk or its effects on the breastfed infant. Due to the lack of information, it is recommended that women taking Galantamine should not breastfeed. The potential benefits of breastfeeding should be weighed against the mother's need for the medication and any potential adverse effects on the infant.
Can Galantamine be taken safely while pregnant?
There are no adequate data on the developmental risk associated with the use of Galantamine in pregnant women. Animal studies have shown developmental toxicity at doses similar to or greater than those used clinically. Due to the lack of human studies, Galantamine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Can I take Galantamine with other prescription drugs?
Galantamine can interact with anticholinergic medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness. It may also have a synergistic effect when used with other cholinesterase inhibitors or cholinergic agonists. Caution is advised when using Galantamine with medications that slow heart rate, such as beta-blockers, as it can increase the risk of bradycardia. Additionally, strong inhibitors of CYP2D6 and CYP3A4, such as paroxetine and ketoconazole, can increase Galantamine levels, leading to more pronounced side effects.
Is Galantamine safe for the elderly?
Galantamine is primarily used to treat mild to moderate dementia in Alzheimer's patients, who are often elderly. It is important to start with a low dose and gradually increase it to minimize side effects. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to assess the effectiveness and tolerability of the medication. Elderly patients should be cautious of potential side effects like dizziness and drowsiness, which can increase the risk of falls.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Galantamine?
Drinking alcohol can increase the drowsiness caused by Galantamine. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medication to prevent any potential increase in side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness, which could impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Galantamine?
Galantamine may cause dizziness or drowsiness, which could potentially affect your ability to exercise safely. If you experience these side effects, it is important to be cautious when engaging in physical activities. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about exercising while taking Galantamine.
Who should avoid taking Galantamine?
Galantamine should not be used in patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment. It may cause serious skin reactions, so discontinue use if a rash appears. Caution is advised for patients with cardiovascular conditions, as Galantamine can cause bradycardia and heart block. It should be used carefully in patients with a history of seizures, asthma, or obstructive pulmonary disease. Patients should avoid alcohol and be cautious when driving or operating machinery due to potential drowsiness and dizziness.
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