Razadyne ER/Razadyne

Generic name: Galantamine hydrobromide

What is Razadyne ER/Razadyne?

Razadyne is used in Alzheimer's patients to treat mild to moderate dementia. It is thought to work by boosting levels of the chemical messenger acetylcholine in the brain. (In Alzheimer's disease, the cells that produce acetylcholine slowly deteriorate.)

What is the most important information I should know about Razadyne ER/Razadyne?

The use of Razadyne may cause you to develop a slow heart rate. You should notify your physician if you develop symptoms of dizziness or faintness.

Razadyne may also cause you to develop gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, a loss of appetite, and weight loss.

While on therapy with Razadyne, it is important to drink an adequate amount of fluids.

It is important to avoid skipping doses of Razadyne. If you miss taking Razadyne for several days, it is important to contact your physician. He or she may have to give you a lower dose of Razadyne, and then gradually increase your dose back to the dose you were originally taking.

If you are planning to undergo surgery, it is important to notify your surgeon that you are on therapy with Razadyne.

Who should not take Razadyne ER/Razadyne?

Do not take Razadyne if you are allergic to it or any of its components.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Razadyne ER/Razadyne?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Razadyne. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have severe asthma or lung disease, have kidney disease, have liver problems, have a history of stomach ulcers, if you are using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or if you have a heart condition.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Razadyne ER

Adults: The recommended starting dose of Razadyne ER capsules is 8 milligrams (mg) once a day. After four weeks, the dose should be increased to 16 mg once a day. After another four weeks, the dose should be further increased to 24 mg once a day. Your doctor will increase your dose based on how well you respond to therapy with Razadyne ER capsules.

Razadyne

Adults: The recommended starting dose of Razadyne tablets or oral solution is 4 mg twice a day. Four weeks later, the dose should be increased to 8 mg twice a day. After waiting an additional four weeks, the dose should be increased to 12 mg twice a day. Your doctor will increase your dose based on how well you respond to therapy with Razadyne tablets or oral solution.

How should I take Razadyne ER/Razadyne?

Razadyne ER capsules should be taken once a day, preferably in the morning with food.

Razadyne tablets or oral solution should be taken twice a day, preferably with morning and evening meals. If you are using the oral solution, draw the required amount into the measuring pipette that comes with the bottle. Empty the pipette into three to four ounces of a nonalcoholic beverage, then stir well and take immediately.

It is important to maintain adequate hydration while on therapy with Razadyne ER capsules/Razadyne tablets or oral solution.

What should I avoid while taking Razadyne ER/Razadyne?

It is important to avoid skipping doses of Razadyne. If Razadyne doses have been missed for several days, it is important to contact your physician; your dose may need to be lowered.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Razadyne ER/Razadyne?

If Razadyne is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Razadyne with the following: anticholinergic medications, cholinergic agonists (eg, bethanechol), cholinesterase inhibitors, cimetidine, erythromycin, ketoconazole, paroxetine, succinylcholine, and paroxetine.

What are the possible side effects of Razadyne ER/Razadyne?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: blood in the urine, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, headache, indigestion, loss of appetite, nausea, runny nose, sleeplessness, stomach pain, tremor, urinary tract infection, vomiting, weight loss

Can I receive Razadyne ER/Razadyne if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of using Razadyne during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. It is not known if Razadyne is found in breast milk. It is important to notify your physician if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast feeding before beginning therapy with Razadyne.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Razadyne ER/Razadyne?

If you have missed taking a single dose of Razadyne, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose.

If you have missed taking Razadyne for several days, it is important to contact your physician before taking another dose. Your doctor may need to lower your dose.

How should I store Razadyne ER/Razadyne?

The tablets, extended-release capsules, and the oral solution may be stored at room temperature. Do not freeze the solution.