I've been unsure for a while about if Galantamine is a prescription drug and if it is how do they get around it.
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I've been unsure for a while about if Galantamine is a prescription drug and if it is how do they get around it.
I took this straight from Wikipedia:
Quote:
Available forms
The product is supplied in both a prescription form as well as an over the counter supplement. in twice-a-day tablets, in once-a-day extended-release capsules, and in oral solution. The tablets come in 4 mg, 8 mg, and 12 mg forms. The capsules come in 8 mg, 16 mg, and 24 mg forms.
Adverse events
In clinical trials, galantamine's side effect profile was very similar to that of other cholinesterase inhibitors, with gastrointestinal symptoms being the most notable and most commonly observed. In practice, some other cholinesterase inhibitors might be better tolerated; however, a careful and gradual titration over more than three months may lead to equivalent long-term tolerability.
Caution
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and international health authorities have published an alert based on data from two studies during the treatment by galantamine of mild cognitive impairment (MCI); higher mortality rates were seen in drug-treated patients.[17][18] On April 27, 2006, FDA approved labeling changes concerning all form of galantamine preparations (liquid, regular tablets, and extended release tablets) warning of the risk of bradycardia (slow resting heart rate), and sometimes atrioventricular block, especially in predisposed persons. At the same time, the risk of syncope (fainting) seems to be increased relative to placebo. "In randomized controlled trials, bradycardia was reported more frequently in galantamine-treated patients than in placebo-treated patients, but was rarely severe and rarely led to treatment discontinuation" [19] These side effects have not been reported in Alzheimer's Disease related studies.[20]
As with any substance, you should proceed with caution and consider your physical condition prior to using any amount of a supplement, even low doses.
... And yes, it is still fairly easily available without a perscription from places like iherb.com...