Galamer 4 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

GALAMER 4 MG TABLET (10 TAB) by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD.

GALAMER 4 MG TABLET is a medication prescribed for the management of mild to moderate dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease. It works to enhance cognitive function, including memory, awareness, and the ability to perform daily activities.

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Galantamine (4mg) GALAMER 4 MG TABLET belongs to a class of medications known as Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors. Galantamine functions by blocking the action of the enzyme cholinesterase, which is responsible for breaking down acetylcholine. By increasing acetylcholine levels, a chemical messenger vital for nerve signal transmission, it helps improve mental functions like memory and thinking.

Uses GALAMER 4 MG TABLET is primarily used for:

• Treatment of mild to moderate dementia in Alzheimer's disease. This progressive illness gradually affects memory and thinking, and while Galamer does not cure it, it may help improve symptoms and daily functioning.

Dosage and Administration

• Take Galamer 4 MG TABLET as advised by your doctor, usually with food, preferably at night before going to bed.
• The initial dose is typically 4 mg twice daily for 4 weeks. The dose may then be gradually increased by your doctor up to 8 to 12 mg twice daily, with increases occurring at intervals of no less than 4 weeks, to suit individual needs.
• Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, crush, or break it.
• It may take a few weeks for symptoms to improve, so it's crucial to continue taking the medicine regularly as prescribed. Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects

• Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, decreased appetite, fatigue, indigestion, abdominal pain, sleepiness, lethargy, depression, muscle weakness, drowsiness, and shakiness (tremor). These side effects may be more pronounced when starting treatment or when the dose is increased, but they usually subside as your body adjusts.
• Serious Side Effects: Serious skin rashes, fainting, slow heart rate (bradycardia), high blood pressure, hallucinations, shortness of breath, chest pain or discomfort, irregular heartbeat, blurred vision, seizures or convulsions, and gastrointestinal bleeding. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Precautions

• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol with Galamer 4 MG TABLET as it can increase dizziness and drowsiness.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Generally considered safe during pregnancy if prescribed by a doctor, but it is probably unsafe during breastfeeding. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Galamer 4 MG TABLET may decrease alertness, cause dizziness, affect vision, or make you feel sleepy. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have liver disease, severe kidney disease (not recommended in end-stage), heart problems (e.g., supraventricular conduction abnormalities, slow heart rate), stomach ulcers, epilepsy, asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Parkinson's disease, or if you have recently had surgery on your stomach, intestines, or bladder.
• Weight Loss: Monitor your body weight regularly as Galamer 4 MG TABLET and Alzheimer's disease can both cause weight loss.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, as Galamer can interact with certain medications, such as CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., quinidine, fluoxetine) and CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir), and NSAIDs.
• Anesthesia: Inform your doctor about taking Galamer 4 MG TABLET if you are going to have surgery under anesthesia.
• Overdose: An overdose can lead to severe symptoms including muscle weakness, severe nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, decreased blood pressure, slow heartbeat, and convulsions. Seek immediate medical attention in case of an overdose.

Storage

• Store below 30°C.
• Keep in a cool and dry place, away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Here are some frequently asked questions about GALAMER 4 MG TABLET, which contains the active ingredient Galantamine:

What is GALAMER 4 MG TABLET used for?

GALAMER 4 MG TABLET is primarily used to treat mild to moderate dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease. It helps improve mental functions like memory, thinking, and the ability to perform daily tasks, though it does not cure the disease itself.

How does GALAMER 4 MG TABLET work?

GALAMER 4 MG TABLET contains Galantamine, which is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. It works by preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine, a natural chemical messenger in the brain that is crucial for memory and thought. By increasing acetylcholine levels, it enhances communication between nerve cells and improves cognitive function. It also acts on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain.

What is the usual dosage for GALAMER 4 MG TABLET?

For immediate-release tablets like GALAMER 4 MG, the typical starting dose is 4 mg taken twice daily, preferably with morning and evening meals. Your doctor may gradually increase the dose, usually after a minimum of four weeks, to a maintenance dose of 16-24 mg per day, divided into two doses, depending on your response and tolerability.

What are the possible side effects of GALAMER 4 MG TABLET?

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, decreased appetite, and weight loss. These often occur when starting the medication or increasing the dose and may lessen over time. Serious side effects, though less common, can include severe skin reactions (like Stevens-Johnson syndrome), a slow heart rate, fainting, stomach ulcers or bleeding, worsening of lung conditions (such as asthma), and seizures. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects.

Is GALAMER 4 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

GALAMER 4 MG TABLET is a pregnancy category C drug, meaning it should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus, as animal studies have shown potential adverse effects. It is not known if Galantamine passes into breast milk, and it could cause serious side effects in a breastfed infant. Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Can GALAMER 4 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

GALAMER 4 MG TABLET can interact with several medications. It should be used with caution or avoided with anticholinergic drugs (found in some antihistamines or medications for Parkinson's disease). Taking it with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding. It can also enhance the effects of certain muscle relaxants used during surgery and may interact with medications that affect heart rate or those metabolized by specific liver enzymes (CYP2D6 and CYP3A4). Always inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, herbal, and vitamin supplements you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while on GALAMER 4 MG TABLET?

It is important to drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Taking it with food can help reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart problems, asthma or other lung diseases, seizures, stomach ulcers or bleeding, liver or kidney problems, or difficulty urinating. Do not stop taking the medication abruptly without consulting your doctor, as beneficial effects may be lost.

What happens if a dose of GALAMER 4 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you miss doses for three days or more, contact your doctor before restarting the medication, as you may need to begin at a lower dose.

How should GALAMER 4 MG TABLET be stored?

GALAMER 4 MG TABLET should be stored in a closed container at room temperature, ideally around 77°F (25°C), but it can tolerate temperatures between 59°F (15°C) and 86°F (30°C) for short periods. Keep it away from heat, moisture, and direct light, and out of the reach of children.