Galantamine is used to treat mild to moderate Alzheimer’s type dementia. People with dementia may have lower levels of acetylcholine, and galantamine improves nerve cell function in the brain by preventing the breakdown of acetycholine.

Follow doctor’s dosing guidelines. Extended-release capsule is best taken with food. Take with a full glass of water. Drink 6-8 glasses of water a day while on galantamine to prevent dehydration. Inform surgeon prior to surgery that you use galantamine. If you stop taking galantamine, inform doctor, as you may need to restart on a lower dose.

Tell your doctor all known medical conditions prior to using galantamine, including heart disease, seizure, COPD, asthma, and urination problems. Tell doctor of all other drugs you take as galantamine may interact with them, including cold/allergy drugs that contain antihistamine, Parkinson’s disease medication, and bronchodilators. Inform doctor if you become pregnant.

Get emergency attention if you suspect allergic reaction, severe skin reaction, or an overdose; symptoms of overdose include drooling, watery eyes, slow pulse, lightheadedness, and seizure. Inform doctor immediately of serious side effects such as: chest pain, slow pulse, little/no urination, bloody urine, stomach bleeding symptoms, liver problem symptoms, dehydration symptoms, lightheadedness, and severe skin reaction. Other side effects include: nausea and vomiting, appetite loss, headache, dizziness, weight loss.