Galantamine and ADHD: A Practical Overview

When looking at galantamine, a reversible cholinesterase inhibitor used mainly for Alzheimer’s disease. Also known as Razadyne, it boosts acetylcholine levels in the brain, which can improve memory and attention. Some clinicians have started to ask whether it can help people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, a neurodevelopmental condition marked by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The idea is that by enhancing cholinergic signaling, galantamine might support the brain networks that are under‑active in ADHD.

galantamine ADHD interest grew after early studies showed modest gains in focus and working memory for adults who didn’t respond well to stimulants. The drug’s main attribute—cholinesterase inhibition, the process of slowing the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine—links directly to cognitive enhancement, a key goal for many ADHD treatment plans. While traditional ADHD meds like methylphenidate or amphetamines act on dopamine and norepinephrine, galantamine offers a different pathway that some patients find useful, especially when side effects from stimulants become a problem. Typical dosing for off‑label use starts low (4 mg daily) and may be increased to 8‑16 mg, but doctors watch for nausea, dizziness, and rare heart rhythm issues.

Key Points to Consider

First, galantamine isn’t FDA‑approved for ADHD, so insurance coverage can be tricky and you’ll likely need a specialist’s prescription. Second, research is still early; most data come from small pilot trials, so benefits vary and long‑term safety isn’t fully mapped. Third, it can interact with other meds that affect heart rhythm or cholinergic activity, so a full medication review is essential. Finally, because it works differently from stimulants, it can be combined with lower doses of traditional ADHD drugs, sometimes reducing overall stimulant side effects. Below you’ll find a collection of articles that dive deeper into galantamine’s mechanism, its side‑effect profile, and how it compares with other cognitive enhancers and ADHD treatments.