Galantamine helps to reduce symptoms of dementia such as memory loss, confusion, and problems with thinking and reasoning in Alzheimer’s disease (a progressive disease which destroys memory and other important mental functions).
This medicine cannot cure Alzheimer’s disease, but it can improve the quality of life for people who have Alzheimer's disease.
Take Galantamine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take it with meals. Try to take it at the same time each day.
This medicine is available as a conventional tablet, modified-release capsule, or as an oral solution.
If you are taking the modified-release/prolonged-release/extended-release type of capsule (usually labeled as “PR”, “ER”), swallow it whole and do not open up the capsule. It is best to take it in the morning after your breakfast. You must drink at least 8 glasses of fluid every day while being treated with Galantamine.
If you are taking the oral solution, use the oral dosing syringe, measuring spoon, cup or dropper provided to measure your dose, then empty the contents into a glass of non-alcoholic drink. Stir the solution well and drink it immediately.
Galantamine must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking Galantamine even when there are signs of improvement which can take a few weeks for you to notice. Do not stop taking Galantamine unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose to make up for the missed dose.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have severe kidney or liver disease as Galantamine may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart disease
- stomach ulcer
- asthma or other lung problems
- bladder problems
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Galantamine to an elderly.
If you are going for an operation, including minor surgery or dental work, inform your surgeon or dentist that you are taking Galantamine.
A certain enzyme called CYP2D6 is involved in the breakdown of this medicine in the body. Individuals who have reduced CYP2D6 enzyme activity, known as
CYP2D6 poor metabolisers, may experience an increased Galantamine concentration in the blood. If you know you have this gene type, inform your doctor.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Your doctor may regularly check your weight while you are being treated with this medicine.
- Monitoring of mental status and for signs of bleeding, fits or seizures, lung function.
Galantamine may cause dizziness or somnolence (suddenly falling asleep during your daily activities). If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects may include any of the following: headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, indigestion, stomach pain, decreased appetite, weight loss, muscle spasms, tremors, increased sweating, being depressed, and seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not existent.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes, face or mouth
- slow heartbeat, fast and irregular heartbeat
- fits or seizures
- rashes with peeling of the skin or blistering of the lips, mouth or eyes accompanied by fever
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines for mood disorder e.g. paroxetine, fluoxetine
- medicines for high blood pressure or heart disease e.g. digoxin, quinidine, propranolol
- medicine to treat fungal infection e.g. ketoconazole
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Galantamine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
The oral solution should be used within 3 months after opening.
The oral solution should not be frozen.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Sign Out
