What Every Caregiver Needs to Know About Galantamine

**What Every Caregiver Needs to Know About Galantamine**

Galantamine is a medication caregivers often encounter when supporting someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you understand its role, how it works, and what to watch for.

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### **What Is Galantamine?**
Galantamine is an oral medication prescribed for mild to moderate Alzheimer’s-related dementia. It helps manage symptoms like memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with thinking or reasoning[1][2]. While it doesn’t cure the disease, it can slow symptom progression in some patients.

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### **How Does It Work?**
Galantamine boosts levels of **acetylcholine**, a brain chemical critical for memory and learning[4]. In Alzheimer’s, acetylcholine breaks down too quickly. By slowing this process, the drug helps nerve cells communicate better[1][4].

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### **Dosage Basics**
– **Starting dose**: Typically 5 mg twice daily[3].
– **Maintenance**: After 4 weeks, doctors may increase this to 10 mg twice daily if tolerated well[3].
– **Maximum dose**: Up to 15 mg twice daily after another 4 weeks at the lower dose[3].

*Important adjustments*:
– **Kidney issues**: If kidney function is reduced (CrCl <59 mL/min), doses above 10 mg twice daily are not recommended[3]. - **Liver issues**: For moderate liver problems (Child-Pugh score 7–9), stick to 10 mg twice daily; avoid entirely in severe cases (score ≥10)[3]. --- ### **Side Effects & Precautions** Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, or loss of appetite. These often improve over time but let the doctor know if they persist. ⚠️ **Serious risks**: Rare allergic reactions (e.g., skin rashes) require immediate medical attention[3]. Avoid galantamine if there’s a known allergy to its ingredients[3]. --- ### Tips for Caregivers 1. **Consistency matters**: Give doses at the same times each day—usually morning and evening—with meals or water to reduce stomach upset. 2. Monitor progress: Note changes in mood, alertness, or physical health between doctor visits. Keep a symptom journal if helpful! 3.Check interactions: Inform healthcare providers about all medications/supplements being taken—even over-the-counter ones—to avoid harmful combinations. By understanding these basics caregivers can better support their loved ones while minimizing risks associated with treatment!