Reminyl

Pronounced: REM-in-ill
Generic name: Galantamine

Why is Reminyl prescribed?

Reminyl can delay or even reverse mental decline in some patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. 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.)

Reminyl is a temporary remedy. It doesn't work for everyone, and it doesn't halt the underlying disease.

Most important fact about Reminyl

Reminyl therapy starts at a low dose and increases over several months. It is important to wait 4 weeks between dosage adjustments. If treatment with Reminyl is interrupted for several days or longer, the patient will need to start over again at the lowest dose, increasing the dose at 4-week intervals until the former dose is achieved.

How should you take Reminyl?

Reminyl should be taken twice a day, preferably with the morning and evening meals. The drug is available in tablet form and as an oral solution. If you are using the solution, draw the required amount into the measuring pipette that comes with the bottle, then empty the pipette into 3 to 4 ounces of a non-alcoholic beverage. Stir well and administer immediately.

--If you miss a dose...

Give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Both the tablets and the oral solution may be stored at room temperature. Do not freeze the solution.

Reminyl side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue giving Reminyl.

• Side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, anemia, blood in urine, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, headache, inability to sleep, indigestion, loss of appetite, nausea, runny nose, sleepiness, tremor, urinary tract infection, vomiting, weight loss