Galantamine is a medication used to treat symptoms of mild to moderate dementia (memory loss and mental changes) caused by Alzheimer's disease and other memory disorders. It works by increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine in the brain, which helps improve memory and cognitive function.

Galantamine is currently available under the brand names Razadyne, Razadyne ER, and Razadyne IR, and comes in the oral dosage form of a solution, a tablet, and an extended-release capsule.

Galantamine is in a class of medications called acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, which work by preventing the cholinesterase enzyme from breaking down acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter that is needed for memory and thought) in the brain. This increases the acetylcholine in your brain, which then helps improve memory and other cognitive skills.

It’s important to note that as Alzheimer’s disease progresses, the brain produces less and less acetylcholine. This means that Galantamine may not work as well as AD continues to progress.

The most common side effects of galantamine include:

• nausea
  
• vomiting
  
• diarrhea
  
• loss of appetite
  
• stomach pain
  
• heartburn
  
• weight loss
  
• extreme tiredness, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
  
• dizziness
  
• pale skin
  
• headache
  
• shaking of a part of your body that you cannot control
  
• depression
  
• runny nose
  

This is not a complete list of side effects – though these are among the most common. Seek medical attention right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• difficulty urinating
  
• blood in the urine
  
• pain or burning while urinating
  
• seizures
  
• slowed heartbeat
  
• fainting
  
• shortness of breath
  
• black and tarry stools
  
• red blood in the stools
  
• bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, as well as any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with galantamine. Galantamine can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects.

Galantamine is not recommended in patients with severe kidney disease, severe liver disease, or in those with stomach blockage or who have recently had a stomach or bowel surgery.

In addition, let your doctor know if you become pregnant while taking galantamine, as galantamine is not recommended during pregnancy.

Galantamine is commonly supplied as either a solution, a tablet, or an extended-release capsule. The exact dosage will vary depending on the age of the patient and their body weight. Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of galantamine without consulting with your provider first. If you begin to experience adverse side effects while taking this medication, like those listed above, inform your provider right away.

Do not skip doses or stop taking the galantamine, and follow your doctor’s instructions closely. If you do miss a dose, skip it and go back to your normal dosing schedule at your next meal, and do not double the dose.

Taking an overdose of galantamine is extremely dangerous and can lead to seizures or shock. Symptoms include large pupils, irregular breathing, fast weak pulse, severe nausea or vomiting, increasing muscle weakness, greatly increased sweating, and greatly increased watering of the mouth. If you think you or someone you know has overdosed, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222.

You should store your medication in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Galantamine is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. You can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not galantamine is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for galantamine to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.