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Compare Galantamine vs. Exelon

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Galantamine (Razadyne ER) and rivastigmine (Exelon) are both acetylcholinesterase inhibitors used to treat Alzheimer's disease, but they have some differences. Galantamine is only approved for mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's, while rivastigmine can also be used for dementia related to Parkinson's disease. Galantamine is available as a tablet, oral solution, and extended-release capsule, whereas rivastigmine comes in an oral capsule and a skin patch. The skin patch option for rivastigmine can be helpful if you have trouble swallowing pills. Both medications can cause nausea and vomiting, but these side effects are more common with rivastigmine. Rivastigmine also has a risk of causing certain movement problems, especially in people with Parkinson's disease. Additionally, galantamine needs to be taken with food to reduce stomach side effects, while rivastigmine capsules should also be taken with meals, and the patch should be applied to clean, dry skin.

  • Galantamine
    Rivastigmine patch (Exelon)
  • Galantamine
    Rivastigmine patch (Exelon)

  • Summary of Galantamine vs. Exelon

    Summary for Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
    Prescription only

    Galantamine is an oral medication used for mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease. It belongs to a drug class called acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. This medication is available as a tablet, oral solution, and extended-release (ER) capsule that you take by mouth. The dosage depends on which form you're taking. Nausea, headache, and dizziness are common side effects of galantamine.

    Summary for Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
    Prescription only

    The rivastigmine patch, also known by its brand name Exelon, is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. It's approved for adults to help with symptoms of dementia related to Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease. The rivastigmine patch (Exelon) is applied onto the skin once per day. The dosage typically depends on your response to the medication and your risk for side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

  • Indications of Galantamine vs. Exelon

    Indications for
    •Mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD)
    Indications for
    •Dementia related to Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease

  • Pros and Cons of Galantamine vs. Exelon

    Pros and Const for Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •ER capsule only needs to be taken once a day
    •Available in an oral solution, which is a good option for people who have a hard time swallowing pills
    Cons
    •Only for mild-to-moderate AD
    •Might not be the best option for people with lung conditions (e.g., severe asthma, COPD) because it can affect your breathing
    •Not recommended for use in people with severe liver or kidney problems
    Pros and Const for Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
    Pros
    •A treatment option for dementia related to Alzheimer's or Parkinson's
    •A patch that's applied directly to the skin once per day
    •Less common to cause side effects than rivastigmine capsules
    Cons
    •Doesn't cure dementia
    •Can cause skin irritation where the patch gets applied
    •Can worsen the symptoms of other medical conditions (e.g., lung problems, stomach ulcers, trouble urinating)

  • Common Side Effects of Galantamine vs. Exelon

    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea (21%)
    •Vomiting (11%)
    •Dizziness (8%)
    •Diarrhea (7%)
    •Low appetite (7%)
    •Headache (7%)
    •Weight loss (5%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea (7%)
    •Vomiting (6%)
    •Diarrhea (6%)

  • Warnings of Galantamine vs. Exelon

    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious skin reaction
    •Slowed heartbeat and fainting
    •Stomach ulcers and bleeding
    •Seizures
    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach upset and loss of appetite
    •Skin reactions
    •Other side effects from rivastigmine patch (Exelon)

  • Prices with our coupons for Galantamine vs. Exelon

    Learn more about Galantamine
    Learn more about Rivastigmine patch

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