Razadyne

The active ingredient in Razadyne is galantamine hydrobromide. Razadyne works by raising the breakdown of acetylcholine, a natural molecule in the brain that is required for memory, thinking, and reasoning. This medication belongs to the cholinesterase inhibitor drug class.

Follow all directions provided by your doctor and read all documents carefully, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Razadyne. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Razadyne:

• Take Razadyne with a full glass of water. Drink 6 to 8 full glasses of water every day to avoid becoming dehydrated while taking this medication.
• If you require surgery, inform the surgeon ahead of time that you are using Razadyne. You may need to stop taking the medication for a brief period of time.
• If you have stopped taking Razadyne for whatever reason, consult your doctor before starting again. You may need to restart the drug with a lesser dose.
• Razadyne extended-release capsules
• Razadyne extended-release capsules are typically taken once a day in the morning. Follow your doctor's directions.
• The extended-release capsule works best when taken with food.
• Avoid crushing, chewing, breaking, or opening an extended-release capsule. Swallow it fully.
• Razadyne short-acting tablets or oral solution (liquid)
• Razadyne short-acting tablets or oral solutions (liquids) are often administered twice daily with meals. Follow your doctor's directions.
• Measure liquid medicine using the accompanying dosing syringe, a specific dose-measuring spoon, or a medicine cup. If you don't have a dose measuring instrument, ask your chemist for one.

Some mild and common side effects of Razadyne seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Nausea or vomiting.
• Headaches.
• Drowsiness.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Weight loss.
• Loss of appetite.
• Little or no urination.
• Muscle weakness.
• Memory loss.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Razadyne. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of stomach bleeding include bloody stools and coughing up blood that looks like coffee grounds.
• Liver problems include stomach pain, tiredness, loss of appetite, and dark urine.
• Dehydration symptoms.
• Allergic reaction to the medication, such as hives, skin rash, or swelling.
• Severe skin reactions.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Razadyne. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Razadyne, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Urinary issues.
• Cardiac illness or a heart rate rhythm problem.
• A history of stomach ulceration or bleeding.
• Seizures or epilepsy.
• Kidney disease.
• Liver disease.
• A history of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Hypersensitivity to the medication.

Razadyne (galantamine) does not operate immediately; it typically takes several weeks before any improvement in memory, thinking, or daily function is visible. Doctors frequently measure its efficacy after 8-12 weeks of consistent treatment, since the advantages accumulate gradually. The idea is to assist in decreasing symptom progression rather than providing immediate relief.

When Razadyne is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Atropine.
• Antihistamine-containing cold or allergy medication (such as Benadryl).
• Antidepressants.
• Medicine for Parkinson's disease.
• Medicine used to treat excessive stomach acid, stomach ulcers, motion sickness, and irritable bowel syndrome.
• Darifenacin, fesoterodine, oxybutynin, tolterodine, and solifenacin are bladder/urinary medications.
• Aclidinium, ipratropium, or tiotropium are all bronchodilators.

Razadyne (galantamine) is available in many dosage forms and strengths:

• Immediate-release galantamine tablets/solutions: 4 mg, 8 mg, and 12 mg (often taken twice a day).
• Extended-release capsules (Razadyne ER): 8 mg, 16 mg, and 24 mg (given once a day).
• Dosing is usually begun low and progressively increased to prevent adverse effects, with a maximum daily dose of 24 mg.
• Take your missed dose as soon as you recall. If your next planned dose is coming up soon, skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medication to make up for the missing dosage.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Janssen Inc. is the company that manufactures Razadyne.

There are several generic name versions available of Razadyne.

You should not abruptly discontinue Razadyne without first consulting your doctor. Stopping on your own may cause your memory or cognitive problems to worsen faster. If your doctor determines you should stop, they may have you taper the dosage gradually to reduce adverse effects and monitor your response.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.