CHOLINESTERASE INHIBITOR
Overview
Zunveyl is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of mild to moderate dementia of the Alzheimer’s type in adults. Individuals eligible for this treatment should have a confirmed diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and should not have any known hypersensitivity to benzgalantamine, galantamine, or any inactive ingredients in Zunveyl. Zunveyl is also known by its drug name, benzgalantamine.
Zunveyl is a cholinesterase inhibitor that works by increasing levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter (chemical messenger) that is often found in lower levels in people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Acetylcholine plays a crucial role in memory and cognitive function (brain function). By preventing its breakdown, Zunveyl helps improve or maintain cognitive performance in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.
How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Zunveyl is taken as a delayed-release tablet orally twice daily, with or without food. The starting dosage schedule is twice daily. After four weeks, dosage may be increased, based on clinical response and tolerability. It is important to ensure adequate fluid intake during treatment, swallow the tablets whole, and avoid consuming alcohol while taking Zunveyl. The drug should be taken exactly as prescribed by a health care provider.
Side effects
Common side effects of Zunveyl include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and decreased appetite.
Rare but serious side effects of donepezil may include severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and cardiac conduction issues affecting the heart’s electrical system, which can lead to bradycardia (slow heart rate) and atrioventricular block. Additionally, gastrointestinal bleeding may occur, especially in individuals with a history of ulcers. Donepezil can also cause bladder outflow obstruction and respiratory problems in people with a history of severe asthma or obstructive pulmonary disease.
For more information about this treatment, visit:
Zunveyl (Benzgalantamine) Delayed-Release Tablets, for Oral Use — U.S. Food and Drug Administration