What It Is:
A drug used to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Razadyne (galantamine HBr) is FDA-approved for mild and moderate stages of the disease.
How It Works:
In technical terms, Razadyne is a cholinesterase inhibitor that prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain. Acetylcholine plays a key role in memory and learning; higher levels in the brain help nerve cells communicate more efficiently. Razadyne also stimulates nicotinic receptors to release more acetylcholine in the brain.
Effectiveness:
Razadyne delays the worsening of Alzheimer's symptoms for 6 to 12 months in about half of the people who take it. For many, the improvement is minimal, yet worthwhile. Anecdotal evidence suggests that a small percentage of people may benefit more dramatically from this drug.
Dosage:
Razadyne is available in tablet and capsule form, and is commonly started at 4 mg twice a day. If it's well tolerated after 4 weeks, the dosage may be increased to 8 mg twice a day. After another four weeks, the dosage may be increased to 12 mg twice a day. Razadyne also comes in an extended release, once-a-day tablet (Razadyne ER). Your health care professional will determine the best dosage for you or your loved one.
Side Effects:
Although generally well-tolerated, the most common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, increased frequency of bowel movements, vomiting, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Side effects are usually mild and temporary.
Potential Interactions:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, should be used with caution while taking Razadyne, due to the increased risk of stomach ulcers. Taking Razadyne with certain antidepressants may make Razadyne more difficult to metabolize.
Precautions:
Be sure to tell your doctor about any history or current problems with stomach ulcers, including any current medications being taken for a stomach condition. Also, the drug can slow the heart rate, a condition known as bradycardia.
Razadyne is occasionally confused with Rozerem, a medication used to treat insomnia. If you are taking Razadyne, make sure you have not been given Rozerem.
Manufacturer:
Razadyne is manufactured by Ortho-McNeil Neurologics.
Generic Available:
Razadyne is available in generic form (galantamine HBr).
Sources:
About Razadyne ER. Ortho-McNeil Neurologics. January 17, 2008. http://www.razadyneer.com
Alzheimer's disease medications fact sheet. Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center, National Institute on Aging. January 15, 2008. http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/medicationsfs.htm
FDA-approved treatments for Alzheimer's. Alzheimer's Association. July 2007. http://www.alz.org/national/documents/topicsheet_treatments.pdf
