Galantamine (also known as Nivalin and Reminyl) is a drug used in the treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease and memory impairments.
It is an alkaloid isolated from snowdrop plant (Galanthus). By its method of action, Galantamine is acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, which means it prevents acetylcholine neurotransmitter from breaking down. It also acts as a positive allosteric modulator of nicotine receptors.
Besides the treatment of dementia caused by Alzheimer’s, studies suggest that Galantamine may prevent nicotine craving and smoking relapse in smokers.
Galantamine is often used recreationally to induce lucid dreaming and promote dream recall.