Galamer Tablet (Galantamine)

Introduction of Galamer Tablet (Galantamine)

Galantamine is a medication that helps in improving the function of the nerve cells in the brain. It works by stopping the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is crucial for the processes of memory, thinking, and reasoning. The level of this chemical is usually lower than normal in people with dementia. Galantamine tablets for dementia induced by Alzheimer's disease. It is sold under various trade names, some of which are Razadyne and Galamer (made by Sun Pharma). Galantamine may also be given for treatments not listed here.

Uses of Galamer Tablet (Galantamine)

Important Information about Galantamine

You should inform your doctor in advance before taking galantamine tablets anti-convulsant medication (Razadyne, Galamer) if you have any of these conditions: heart disease, a heart rhythm disorder, urination problems, stomach ulcers or bleeding, a seizure disorder, asthma, kidney disease, or liver disease.

Immediately stop using Galantamine medication and seek medical attention if you experience chest pain, low heart rate, bloody stools, coughing up blood, reduced urination, weakness, confusion, extreme thirst, or hot or dry skin.

There are several drugs that can interact with galantamine tablets. Notify your doctor about all medications and related products (OTC vitamin pills, herbal products, and others) that you may be using prior to taking this medication. If you are scheduled for surgery, you may be required to suspend taking Galantamine for a short period. Let your surgeon know well in advance that you are taking this medication. If you have stopped taking this medication and want to start again after some time, ensure that you consult your doctor first as you may require a lower dose initially. Galantamine may impact your thinking capabilities and reflexes. So take extra care while indulging in activities that require a high degree of mental awareness and thinking such as driving.

Galantamine is an FDA pregnancy category B drug that implies that it is not expected to harm an unborn baby if taken while pregnant. Notify your doctor of your pregnancy or any plans to become pregnant. It is not known if Galantamine can pass into breast milk and harm a nursing baby. Do not take this medication without asking a doctor if you are breastfeeding a baby.

Side effects of Galamer Tablet (Galantamine)

You may witness or experience some side effects while taking Galantamine (Razadyne, Galamer). Some of the side effects due to Galantamine are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, appetite loss, or weight loss. Seek emergency medical attention if any of these effects persist for a longer period or deteriorate further.

Any serious side effect is rare but gets in touch with your doctor immediately if you have any of these serious side effects of Galantamine: fainting, unusually slow heartbeat, difficulty while urinating, seizures, black or bloody stools, bloody vomit that looks like coffee grounds, stomach pain/abdominal pain, or irregular heartbeat.

These are not the only side effects of Galantamine medication. There may be others. Contact your doctor right away if you experience any serious side effects or if your condition worsens after taking Galantamine.

Galantamine tablet Benefits

Improving cognitive function: Galantamine helps to enhance memory, attention, and thinking abilities in individuals with Alzheimer's disease. It can improve cognitive performance and slow down the decline in cognitive function.

Managing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease: Galantamine can help alleviate the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, including memory loss, confusion, and difficulties with daily activities. It may improve the overall quality of life for individuals with this condition.

Enhancing memory in healthy individuals: Some studies suggest that galantamine may have memory-enhancing effects in healthy individuals. It may improve working memory, attention, and other cognitive functions. However, further research is needed to establish its efficacy in this regard.

Potential benefits for other conditions: Galantamine is being explored for its potential benefits in other neurological conditions, such as vascular dementia and mild cognitive impairment. It may also have neuroprotective properties and promote neurogenesis (the formation of new neurons).

Precautions of Galamer Tablet (Galantamine)

Before taking Galantamine (Razadyne, Galamer), take care of all precautions mentioned above and discuss them with your doctor. Take Galantamine anti-convulsant medication (Razadyne, Galamer) strictly according to your doctor's direction or according to the instructions on the medication label. Do not alter the dosage unless your doctor advises you to do so.Your doctor may occasionally change the dosage to get the maximum benefit out of the medication. Also, do not take this medication after the prescribed period is over. Galantamine extended-release capsule is usually taken once per day in the morning or according to your doctor's instructions. It works best if taken along with food. Avoid crushing, breaking, or chewing a Galantamine extended-release tablet as doing so may lead to too much of the medicine being released at once. Instead swallow it whole with a full glass of water. Ensure to drink plenty of water (6-8 glasses) to prevent dehydration while taking Galantamine. Always store Galantamine medication in a cool and dry place.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Galantamine, take it as soon as you remember. Don’t take the missed dose if the time to take the next dose is almost up. Taking multiple doses near each other can lead to excess medication in your body which can be harmful.

What if I overdose?

In case of an overdose of galantamine tablets, get emergency medical attention or call the Doctor immediately. Overdose may lead to symptoms like severe nausea, vomiting, cramps in the stomach, muscle weakness or spasms, watery eyes, drooling, increased urination or bowel movements, sweating, slow heart rate, lightheadedness, or seizures.

Things and Activities to avoid while taking Galantamine

Galantamine may impact your thinking capabilities and reflexes. So take extra care while indulging in activities that require a high degree of mental awareness and thinking such as driving.

Galantamine Dosing Information

Galantamine dosage may depend on a range of factors like age, sex, drug allergies, or seriousness of the condition among several other factors. Your dosage will be fixed by your doctor after examining you properly. Remember to obey your doctor strictly for the best results.

Galantamine Interaction with other drugs

Some drugs can interact with Galantamine tablets. Let your doctor know in advance if you are already using any of these interacting drugs: erythromycin, donepezil, paroxetine, antifungal medicine like ketoconazole or others, rivastigmine, atropine, belladonna, scopolamine, bladder or urinary medicines such as darifenacin, flavoxate, oxybutynin or others, bronchodilators such as ipratropium or tiotropium, irritable bowel medicines such as dicyclomine, hyoscyamine, or propantheline, ulcer medications like mepenzolate or glycopyrrolate, or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, celecoxib, naproxen, or others.

The list of drugs mentioned here in this guide is not a complete one and there may be other interacting drugs. Share the list of all present medications which you may be using with your doctor. Never start a new medication on your own.

Expert advice

• Consult your doctor if you have any heart disorder, electrolyte disturbances, peptic (stomach) ulcer disease, acute abdominal pain, a disorder of the nervous system (like fits or Parkinson&rsquo's disease), asthma, pneumonia, difficulties passing urine, or if you had an operation on the gut or bladder.
• Do not drive or operate machinery as galantamine may cause drowsiness.
• Do not consume alcohol while taking galantamine as it may worsen the side effects.
• Galantamine should be used with caution in the elderly as they may be more sensitive to its effects.
• Tell your doctor if you are planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions

Galantamine