Reminyl

Generic Name: Galantamine hydrobromide
Product Name: Reminyl

Indication

Reminyl is a drug used in the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. Click here to download an Alzheimer’s Patient Information Booklet.

Action

Reminyl works by preventing the action of acetylcholinesterase, the compound that normally breaks down the acetylcholine in the brain. This slows the breakdown and increases the level of acetylcholine in the brain. 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 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.

Dose advice

The formulation of Reminyl available in Australia is the Prolonged Release Capsule (PRC). Reminyl PRC is taken in one dose, it is recommended that you take this dose in the morning with breakfast. Reminyl PRC comes in three different strengths. Your doctor may start you on the low dose and increase this after 4 weeks to a higher dose. Consult your doctor if you experience any side effects as this may indicate the need to change the dose of the drug.

Schedule

Common side effects

Nausea (13%) and Vomiting (6%)
Diarrhoea (12%)
Abdominal pain (5%)
Indigestion (5%)
Weight (5%) and appetite loss (7%)
Dizziness (9%)
Headache (8%)
Confusion
Insomnia (5%)
Common cold (4%)
Urinary tract infection (8%)
Fatigue (5%)

Uncommon side effects

Tremor (3%)
Fainting (2%)
Slow heart rate (2%)

References

Consumer Medicine Information, ‘Reminyl Prolonged Release Capsules’, Janssen-Cilag, 13 Nov 2006
‘Razadyne Prescribing information’ [online], Janssen-Cilag, 2006, Available from: [URL Link] (last accessed 13/07/2006)
‘Reminyl’ [online], AMH, 2006, Available from: [URL Link] (last accessed 25/01/2007)
‘Reminyl Prescribing information’ [online], MIMS, 2006, Available from: [URL Link] (last accessed 25/01/2007)
‘Reminyl Product Information’, Janssen-Cilag, 30 Jun 2006