Exelon Patch (Rivastigmine Transdermal System) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Exelon Patch

Alzheimer's Disease »

What is dementia?

Dementia is a syndrome characterized by:

impairment in memory,

impairment in another area of thinking such as the ability to organize thoughts and reason, the ability to use language, or the ability to see accurately the visual world (not because of eye disease), and

these impairments are severe enough to cause a decline in the patient's usual level of functioning.

Although some kinds of memory loss are normal parts of aging, the changes due to aging are not severe enough to interfere with the level of function. Many different diseases can cause dementia, but Alzheimer's disease is by far the most common cause for dementia in the United States and in most countries in the world.

What is Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a slowly progressive disease of the brain that is characterized by impairment of memory and eventually by dist...

Read the Alzheimer's Disease article »

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Exelon Patch

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Exelon Patch Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

RIVASTIGMINE PATCH - TRANSDERMAL

(riv-uh-STIG-meen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Exelon

USES: Rivastigmine is used to treat confusion (dementia) related to Alzheimer's disease and to Parkinson's disease. Rivastigmine does not cure either of these diseases, but it may improve memory, awareness, and the ability to perform daily functions. This medication works by restoring the balance of natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. Follow all instructions for how to properly apply and use the patches. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Apply the patch to the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Do not open the sealed pouch until ready to use. Open the pouch and remove the patch from the protective liner. Do not cut the patch. Apply the patch as directed to a clean, dry, hairless area on the back, upper arm, or chest. Remove the old patch first before applying a new patch. Do not wear 2 patches at the same time. Do not apply the patch to red/irritated/broken areas of skin or to areas where you have applied creams or lotions. Avoid applying it to areas where tight clothing may rub the patch off. You can bathe with the patch on.

When changing your patch, remove the old patch, fold it in half with the sticky sides together, and throw it away out of reach of children and pets. Apply a new patch to a different area to prevent skin irritation. Do not apply a new patch to the same area for at least 2 weeks.

Do not touch your eyes while you are handling the patch. Wash your hands with soap and water after each application.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects (such as nausea and diarrhea), your doctor will start this medication using a lower dose of the patch and may increase your dose after 4 weeks. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often than prescribed. Do not apply more than one patch per day or leave the patch on for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, change your patch at the same time each day.

If you do not use rivastigmine for 3 or more days in row, talk with your doctor before starting again. You may need to restart at a lower dose.

Tell your doctor if your condition worsens.