Galantamine comes in different forms including a twice-daily solution, and tablets of 8mg and 12mg.The recommended starting dose for galantamine is 8mg each day for four weeks, increasing to 16mg a day for another four weeks, and then kept at a dose of between 16 and 24mg daily.Only one patch should be used at any one time and a new patch should be put on a different area of the skin, to avoid the person getting a rash. Patches may be better for people who find it hard to take medication by mouth. These deliver daily doses of 4.6mg, 9.5mg or 13.3mg, with fewer side effects than the capsules.
Rivastigmine skin patches are also available.The maximum licensed total daily dose for rivastigmine taken by mouth is 12mg.People start with 3mg a day in two divided doses, which will usually increase (at intervals of at least two weeks) to between 6mg and 12mg a day. It is taken twice a day, with morning and evening meals. Rivastigmine comes in capsules from 1.5mg to 6mg and as a solution.The maximum licensed total daily dose is 10mg.Treatment is started at 5mg a day and then increased to 10mg a day after one month if necessary. Donepezil is taken once a day, usually at bedtime.Donepezil is available in 5mg or 10mg solid and orodispersible tablets.
The doctor will prescribe the best dose for each individual.
Some people may not be able to take the highest dose because of side effects. Usually someone will start on a low dose, which will be gradually increased to make the treatment work better. The dose prescribed varies from person to person.