Galanthamine comes from the bulbs of a spring flower called common snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis). The herb also is available as a chemical synthetic. A 1983 journal report suggested that Odysseus used the common snowdrop as an antidote to Circe’s poisonous drugs in Homer’s epic poem The Odyssey. ” true, this would have been the first recorded use of galanthamine to reverse drug intoxication.
Common doses of Galanthamine
Galanthamine comes as:
- coated tablets (5 and 10 milligrams)
- ampules (5 milligrams).
Some experts recommend the following dose:
- For Alzheimer’s disease, initially 5 milligrams taken three times daily, then increased to 30 to 40 milligrams daily.
Uses of Galanthamine
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Myasthenia gravis
- Post-polio paralyses
- To reverse neuromuscular blockade (in which drugs are giver to stop unwanted muscle movement)
Side effects of Galanthamine
Call your health care practitioner if you experience any of these possible side effects of galanthamine:
Interactions
Combining herbs with certain drugs may alter their action or produce unwanted side effects. Don’t use galanthamine while taking drugs to relieve depression called MAO inhibitors (such as Marplan and Nardil) or if you’ve been exposed to organophosphate fertilizers (used in gardens and on farms).
Important points to remember
- Don’t use this herb if you have a slow pulse, extremely poor muscle tone, recent heart attack, epilepsy, unusually increased muscle activity, Parkinson’s disease, diabetic crisis, or a blockage of the. respiratory, digestive, or urinary tract.
- Consult your health care practitioner before taking galanthamine.
- Remember that established treatments are available for the conditions for which galanthamine is used.
- Avoid hazardous activities until you know how the herb affects you.
What the research shows
Some research supports galanthamine’s use in Alzheimer’s disease, and scientists can predict its effects and safety. More studies are needed to define its exact role in treating this condition. Meanwhile, medical experts emphasize that proven drugs are available, so using galanthamine is questionable.
Other names for Galanthamine : –
Other names for galanthamine Other names for galanthamine include galanthamine hydrobromide.
A product containing galanthamine is sold as Nivalin.
Useful References