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Alzheimer's Disease Patient Caregiver Guide »
Caring for a person with Alzheimer's disease at home is a difficult task and can become overwhelming at times. Each day brings new challenges as the caregiver copes with changing levels of ability and new patterns of behavior. Research has shown that caregivers themselves often are at increased risk for depression and illness, especially if they do not receive adequate support from family, friends, and the community. One of the biggest struggles caregivers face is dealing with the difficult behaviors of the person they are caring for. Dressing, bathing, eating—basic activities of daily living—often become difficult to manage for both the person with Alzheimer's and the caregiver. Having a plan for getting through the day can help caregivers cope. Many caregivers have found it helpful to use strategies for dealing with difficult behaviors and stressful situations. Through trial and error you will find that some of...
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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
GALANTAMINE EXTENDED-RELEASE CAPSULE - ORAL
(ga-LAN-tuh-meen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Razadyne ER
USES: Galantamine is used to treat mild to moderate confusion (dementia) related to Alzheimer's disease. It does not cure Alzheimer's disease, but it may improve memory, awareness, and the ability to perform daily functions. This medication works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with food, usually once daily in the morning with breakfast or as directed by your doctor. This medication may be taken on an empty stomach if necessary. Drink plenty of fluids with this medication unless instructed otherwise. To lower your risk of side effects, your dosage will be gradually increased to your target dose. Your dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not take more than the maximum recommended dose of 24 milligrams per day.
Swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush or chew the capsules. Doing so can destroy the long action of the drug and may increase side effects.
If you stop taking galantamine for several days, consult your doctor or pharmacist before restarting it. Your dosage should be reduced to lower the risk of side effects. Your dosage should then be increased gradually. Follow all your doctor's dosing instructions exactly.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Do not stop taking it or increase the dosage unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
It may take at least 4 weeks of continued use before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.
Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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