Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Galantamine is used to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). It may improve the ability to think and remember or slow the loss of these abilities in people who have AD. Galantamine is in a class of medications called acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. It works by increasing the amount of a certain natural substance in the brain that is needed for memory and thought.
Uses and Dosage
Galantamine is available in tablet, extended-release capsule, and liquid forms for oral consumption. Tablets and liquid are typically taken twice a day, preferably with morning and evening meals, while the extended-release capsules are usually taken once a day in the morning. Consistency is key, so take galantamine at approximately the same time(s) every day.
Follow your doctor’s prescribed dosage precisely, avoiding both excess and insufficient intake or a frequency higher than directed. Adhering to the prescribed dosing schedule reduces the likelihood of experiencing galantamine’s side effects.
When taking extended-release capsules, swallow them whole; do not crush or chew.
Galantamine may cause stomach upset, especially at the beginning of treatment. Take galantamine with food and ensure adequate hydration by drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water daily. This can decrease the likelihood of experiencing stomach upset during your treatment.
Typically, your doctor will initiate treatment with a low galantamine dose, gradually increasing it, but not more often than once every 4 weeks.
Continue taking galantamine even if you feel well, and do not discontinue it without consulting your doctor. If you stop taking galantamine for a few days or longer, contact your doctor before resuming. Your doctor will likely advise restarting with the lowest dose and gradually increasing it back to the previous level.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- loss of appetite
- stomach pain
- heartburn
- weight loss
- extreme tiredness
- dizziness
- pale skin
- headache
- shaking of a part of your body that you cannot control
- depression
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- runny nose
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- 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
- vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Caution
- Before taking galantamine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, whether to galantamine, daffodil plants, or other substances. Inactive ingredients in the product may trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have liver problems, kidney problems, stomach/intestinal issues, heart problems, breathing/lung problems, seizures, or difficulties with urination.
- Galantamine may induce dizziness or drowsiness. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or using machinery, until you can do so safely.
- Galantamine may lead to a heart rhythm condition known as QT prolongation, which can rarely result in serious (and rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms requiring immediate medical attention, such as severe dizziness or fainting. The risk of QT prolongation may increase if you have specific medical conditions or are taking other drugs that can cause QT prolongation. Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking and whether you have certain heart problems or a family history of such issues.
- Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also raise the risk of QT prolongation. This risk may further increase with the use of certain drugs (like diuretics/”water pills”) or in conditions involving severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Discuss the safe use of galantamine with your doctor.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially QT prolongation.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is unclear whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Razadyne ER is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Razadyne ER extended-release tablet:
- 8 mg
- 16 mg
- galantamine ER extended-release tablet:
- 8 mg
- 16 mg
- 24 mg
FAQ
How long can you take Razadyne ER?
There isn’t a set amount of time that’s recommended to take Razadyne ER. Your provider will probably tell you to continue taking the medication as long as it’s helping with your symptoms and you’re not having bothersome side effects, like nausea, vomiting, and appetite changes.
Does Razadyne ER have to be taken with food?
It’s recommended that you take your dose with food to lower your risk of stomach side effects like nausea and vomiting.
