How does it work?

This medicine contains the active ingredient galantamine hydrobromide, which is a type of medicine called an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. It slows the breakdown of a compound in the body called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a type of compound known as a neurotransmitter. These are chemicals that are stored in nerve cells and are involved in transmitting messages between the nerve cells. Acetylcholine is found in the brain and is constantly being manufactured and broken down by the body. Reduced levels of acetylcholine in the brain appear to be a feature of Alzheimer's disease. Galantamine works by preventing the action of acetylcholinesterase, the compound which normally breaks down the acetylcholine in the brain. This slows the breakdown and increases the level of acetylcholine in the brain. Galantamine also enhances the activity of the acetylcholine present in the brain. The overall result of these two actions is an improvement in the levels and activity of acetylcholine in the brain, which leads to better brain functioning. Galantamine thereby improves cognitive function, such as the processes of thinking, learning and problem solving. It is used to treat the symptoms of dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease.

What is it used for?

Alzheimer's disease

Warning!

Take this medicine with or after food.

This medicine may cause fatigue and dizziness. If affected, caution is required when driving or operating machinery due to the possible reduction in physical and/or mental ability.

This medicine is not recommended for use in children.

This medicine may cause weight loss. Body weight should be regularly monitored in people taking this medicine.

Reminyl 12mg tablets contain the colouring E110, which may cause allergic reactions.

Reminyl tablets contain lactose monohydrate as an inactive ingredient. This means they are not suitable to be taken by people with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the Lapp lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption. Reminyl oral solution does not contain lactose.

Reminyl oral solution contains methyl and propyl parahydroxybenzoates, which can sometimes cause (possibly delayed) allergic reactions.

Use with caution in

A problem common in the elderly, related to poor control of the working of the heart (sick sinus syndrome)

Disease involving the heart and blood vessels

Epilepsy

History of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

History of severe asthma

Moderately reduced liver function

Obstruction of the gut

Obstruction of the urinary tract (urethra)

People recovering from bladder surgery

People recovering from stomach or intestinal surgery

People who have previously had peptic ulcer disease

Not to be used in

Breastfeeding

Severely decreased kidney function

Severely decreased liver function

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The safety of this medicine in pregnancy has not been established. It should therefore be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the benefits to the mother outweigh any risks to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Mothers who need to take this medicine should not breastfeed. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Take this medication with or after food.

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