Indications
Exelon (active ingredient: rivastigmine) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Alzheimer's Disease: Exelon is used for the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease, a progressive neurological disorder characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes.
- Parkinson's Disease Dementia: It is also indicated for the treatment of dementia associated with Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia, along with cognitive impairment.
Exelon belongs to a class of drugs known as cholinesterase inhibitors, which work by increasing the levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory and cognitive function, in the brain.
Uses and Dosage
Rivastigmine comes in the form of a tablet to be taken by mouth with food as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily in the morning and evening. Your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase your dose over 2 to 4 weeks to reduce the risk of side effects such as nausea and diarrhea.
The recommended dose of Rivastigmine is 1.5 mg to 6 mg per day. The dose should be titrated up slowly, starting with 1.5 mg twice a day and increasing by 1.5 mg twice a day at weekly intervals as necessary and tolerated. The dose may be increased up to 6 mg twice daily, depending on tolerance and effectiveness. Use Rivastigmine exactly as prescribed and do not change your dose or stop taking it without talking to your doctor first.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Rivastigmine:
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Loss of appetite
- Loss of strength
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weight loss
Serious Side Effects of Rivastigmine:
- Loss of balance control
- Muscle trembling, jerking, or stiffness
- Restlessness
- Severe stomach pain
- Shortness of breath
- Shuffling walk
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Stiffness of the limbs
- Trouble urinating
- Twisting movements of the body
- Uncontrolled movements, especially of the face, neck, and back
- Unusual tiredness
- Vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
Form and Strength
Exelon (Rivastigmine) is available in the following forms and strength:
Exelon: Tablet
- 1.5 mg
- 4.5 mg
- 6 mg
Rivastigmine: Tablet
- 1.5 mg
- 3 mg
- 4.5 mg
- 6 mg
Caution
- If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, tell your doctor. If you become pregnant while taking rivastigmine, you should call your doctor right away. It is not known if rivastigmine could harm an unborn baby, so it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking this medication while pregnant.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to rivastigmine after taking the tablet, tell your doctor and pharmacist. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients in the medication to make sure that you are not allergic to any of them.
- If you weigh less than 110 lb. (50 kg), have, or have ever had asthma, ulcers, or abnormal heartbeats, or have had other heart, liver, kidney, or lung disease, your doctor may need to adjust your treatment or monitor you more closely for side effects.
- Tell your doctor and pharmacist about any prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, or herbal products you are taking or plan to take, including antihistamines, aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, bethanechol, ipratropium, medications for Alzheimer's disease, glaucoma, irritable bowel disease, motion sickness, ulcers, or urinary problems.
- Tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking rivastigmine if you are having any kind of surgery, including dental surgery. Rivastigmine may affect the way certain medications are metabolized and could increase the risk of side effects. Your doctor may need to adjust your doses or monitor you more closely for side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does Rivastigmine work?
Rivastigmine works by preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger in the brain. This helps improve communication between nerve cells and the symptoms of dementia.
How long does it take for Rivastigmine to work?
It typically takes 4-6 weeks for a person to experience the full benefit of Rivastigmine.
Is Rivastigmine safe for pregnant women?
Rivastigmine is not recommended for use during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor before taking this medication.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Rivastigmine?
If you miss a dose of Rivastigmine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
Are there any drug interactions with Rivastigmine?
Yes, Rivastigmine may interact with other medications. Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking before starting Rivastigmine.
Resources
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a602009.html
- https://www.novartis.com/us-en/sites/novartis_us/files/exelonpatch.pdf
- https://www.rxlist.com/exelon-drug.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-18196-8218/exelon-oral/rivastigmine-oral/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/rivastigmine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20065860?p=1
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