Two clinical trials have revealed that Johnson & Johnson's Alzheimer's drug Reminyl (known generically as galantamine), has allegedly caused an increased risk for heart attack and stroke in users.
Reminyl is approved in 69 countries for the treatment of mild to moderalte Alzheimers, but it has not been approved for mild cognitive impairment, which is what the clinical trials were exploring.
The clinical trials lasted two years, during which 15 patients taking Reminyl died, as compared to 5 patients on the placebo. Most of the deaths were caused by heart attack or stroke.
People taking Reminyl should not discontinue the drug without consulting their doctors.
