Exelon Patch (Rivastigmine Transdermal System) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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May 26, 2012

Exelon Patch

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Exelon Patch

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Exelon® Patch
(rivastigmine) Transdermal System

DRUG DESCRIPTION

Exelon Patch (rivastigmine transdermal system) is a reversible cholinesterase inhibitor and is known chemically as (S)- 3-[1-(dimethylamino) ethyl]phenyl ethylmethylcarbamate. It has an empirical formula of C₁₄H₂₂N₂O₂ as the base and a molecular weight of 250.34 (as the base). Rivastigmine is a viscous, clear, and colorless to yellow to very slightly brown liquid that is sparingly soluble in water and very soluble in ethanol, acetonitrile, n-octanol and ethyl acetate.

The distribution coefficient at 37°C in n-octanol/phosphate buffer solution pH 7 is 4.27.

Exelon® Patch (rivastigmine) Structural Formula Illustration

Exelon Patch (rivastigmine transdermal system) is for transdermal administration. The patch comprises a four-layer laminate containing the backing layer, drug matrix, adhesive matrix and overlapping release liner. The release liner is removed and discarded prior to use. See Figure 1 for a detailed illustration.

Figure 1: Cross Section of the Patch

Cross Section of the Patch - Illustration

Layer 1	Backing Film
Layer 2	Drug Product (Acrylic) Matrix
Layer 3	Adhesive (Silicone) Matrix
Layer 4	Release Liner (removed at time of use)

Excipients within the formulation include acrylic copolymer, poly(butylmethacrylate, methylmethacrylate), silicone adhesive applied to a flexible polymer backing film, silicone oil, and vitamin E.

What are the possible side effects of rivastigmine transdermal (Exelon)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using rivastigmine transdermal and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss;
black or bloody stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like blood or coffee grounds;
restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck, tremor...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Exelon Patch »

What are the precautions when taking rivastigmine transdermal system (Exelon Patch)?

Before using rivastigmine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: breathing/lung problems (such as asthma, COPD-chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), stomach/intestinal problems (such as ulcers, bleeding), heart problems (such as sick sinus syndrome, other conduction disorders), fainting, seizures, problems urinating (such as due to enlarged prostate).

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure...

Read All Potential Precautions of Exelon Patch »

Last reviewed on RxList: 9/17/2010
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.