Exelon Patch (Rivastigmine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Exelon Patch Used For?
Exelon Patch is a medication that contains rivastigmine, which helps manage symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Primary Uses
It is primarily used to treat Alzheimer's disease, a condition that affects memory and cognitive function.
How It Works
Rivastigmine increases levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that helps transmit messages in the brain.
Good to know: Exelon Patch is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Exelon Patch
Exelon Patch should be applied to clean, dry skin once a day.
Dosage Instructions
Typically, start with one Exelon Patch 5 mg per day. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget to apply your patch, do so as soon as you remember. Do not apply two patches at once.
Important: Never apply more than one patch at a time.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Feeling tired
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Diarrhea
- Skin irritation at the patch site
- Weight loss
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Hallucinations
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of lips or tongue
- Severe abdominal pain
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Chest pain
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Confusion
Impulse Control Issues
Patients may experience impulse control problems, including gambling or spending issues.
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before using Exelon Patch.
Who Should Not Take Exelon Patch
Do not use Exelon Patch if you are allergic to rivastigmine or if you have liver conditions.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have heart conditions, respiratory issues, stomach ulcers, seizures, or low body weight.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Do not breastfeed while using Exelon Patch.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients with dementia should be monitored closely while using this medication.
Drug Interactions
Exelon Patch may interact with certain medications.
Grapefruit interaction: Consult your doctor about potential interactions with grapefruit.
- Nicotine
- Metoclopramide
- Atenolol
- Bethanechol
- QT interval affecting medications such as quinidine, amiodarone, pimozide
Alcohol & Driving
Exelon Patch may cause dizziness or fatigue, affecting your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol may increase feelings of dizziness or tiredness while using Exelon Patch.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Avoid driving or using machinery if you feel dizzy or tired.
Temperature Regulation
Avoid exposing the patch to excessive heat, as it may affect its effectiveness.
Storage
Store Exelon Patch in a cool, dry place at room temperature, below 25°C. Keep it in its original packaging until use.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, remove any patches and seek immediate medical assistance, even if no symptoms are present.
Frequently Asked Questions
Exelon Patch may take several weeks to show noticeable effects on symptoms.
Exelon Patch can be used regardless of food intake.
No, Exelon Patch is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Exelon Patch abruptly without consulting your doctor.
Consult your doctor about alcohol consumption while using Exelon Patch, as it may increase dizziness.
Weight loss is a common side effect of Exelon Patch, not weight gain.
Elderly patients should be monitored closely while using Exelon Patch.
If you miss a dose, apply a new patch as soon as you remember, but do not apply two patches at once.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.