What it is used for

Mild to moderate dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease

Read our guides:

Dementia

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Dementia with mixed causes, under a specialist

How it works

Galantamine stops the breakdown of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger important for memory and learning. It also boosts the response of nerve cells to acetylcholine.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Galantamine can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

feeling sick or being sick
loss of appetite and weight loss
headache
dizziness
feeling tired
a slow heartbeat

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

fainting or a very slow heartbeat
black or bloody poo, or vomiting blood
a skin rash with blisters

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Drink plenty of fluids, especially if sick.
Take it with food to reduce feeling sick.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.