Galantamine: What It Does and How to Use It

Galantamine is a prescription medicine used mainly for mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. It helps boost brain levels of acetylcholine, which can improve memory and thinking in some people. You won’t see overnight miracles, but many patients get small, meaningful gains in daily tasks and attention.

How it’s given and typical doses

Galantamine comes as immediate‑release tablets, extended‑release tablets, and an oral solution. Typical starting doses are 4 mg twice daily (IR) or 8 mg once daily (ER). Doctors usually increase the dose every four weeks if the drug is tolerated. Common maintenance doses range from 16 to 24 mg per day. Your provider adjusts based on effects and side effects.

Some people can’t swallow pills or need very specific doses. That’s where compounding can help. Compounded options include flavored liquids, smaller tablet strengths, or capsules made to match a dose your doctor prescribes. If you need a compounded version, use a licensed compounding pharmacy and ask about stability, storage, and an exact expiration date.

Side effects, warnings, and what to watch for

Expect some gastrointestinal effects first: nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are the most common. Other issues include decreased appetite, weight loss, dizziness, insomnia, and muscle cramps. Because galantamine increases cholinergic activity, it can slow the heart rate and worsen asthma or COPD in some people. If you have a history of slow heartbeat, fainting, or heart block, tell your prescriber.

Watch for signs of dehydration or sudden weight loss from GI effects. Also monitor for new falls or confusion—those may mean the dose needs adjusting. If severe bradycardia, fainting, or breathing problems occur, stop the drug and contact your provider immediately.

Galantamine can interact with other drugs. Strong CYP2D6 or CYP3A4 inhibitors (like ketoconazole or quinidine) can raise galantamine levels and increase side effects. Anticholinergic drugs (some antihistamines, bladder meds) can reduce its benefit. Always list all medicines, supplements, and herbal products to your clinician and pharmacist.

Buying galantamine: it requires a prescription. If ordering online, use a licensed, verified pharmacy and never buy from sites that skip prescriptions. Compounded galantamine should come from a registered compounding pharmacy with clear labeling and quality checks.

Finally, treatment decisions are personal. Some people get noticeable help; others see little change. Regular follow‑up—every few months at first—lets you track benefits, side effects, and whether a compounded formulation is needed. Ask your pharmacist for tips on taking it with food to reduce nausea and on safely storing compounded liquids.