Galantamine

Galantamine is primarily a cholinesterase inhibitor which is indicated in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.

There is evidence that, in a mixed population of patients with probable vascular dementia or Alzheimer's disease and cerebrovascular disease, galantamine was more effective than placebo for improving cognitive ability and global functioning (1).

With respect to patient with Alzheimer's disease

• clinicians, but not patients and caregivers, observed a significantly greater improvement in goal attainment among patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease who were taking galantamine than among those who were taking placebo (2)

The summary of product characteristics must be consulted before prescribing this drug.

Reference:

1. Lancet 2002 Apr 13;359(9314):1283-90
2. CMAJ 2006;174:1099-105