Exelon Patch (Rivastigmine)
Medication information written by Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Updated - February 2, 2021
Exelon Patch (Rivastigmine) Medication Information
Uses
Exelon Patch contains an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor-rivastigmine, indicated for the:
- Treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s type dementia
- Treatment of mild to moderate dementia associated with Parkinson’s disease
Dosage
The Exelon transdermal system is available in several strengths:
- 4.6 mg/24 hours
- 9.5 mg/24 hours
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Exelon include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Anorexia
- Dyspepsia
- Asthenia
For a full list of side effects that apply to you, contact your pharmacist or doctor.
Precautions
Gastrointestinal side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and weight loss, and may cause treatment interruption. Dehydration may occur from vomiting or diarrhea and can cause serious problems.
Stop rivastigmine in case of disseminated allergic dermatitis, which can happen after oral or transdermal administration.
Use caution in patients who weigh less than 50 kg.
Interactions
Common medications that interact with Exelon are listed:
- Metoclopramide
- Beta-blockers
- Cholinomimetic
- Anticholinergic drugs
Contact your pharmacist or a doctor to receive more information.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (77ºF). Keep in the individually sealed pouch until use. The used patches should be folded with the adhesive surfaces pressed together to discard safely
Pharmacist Tips
- There is a high incidence of nausea and vomiting.
- If therapy has been interrupted for more than several days, the next dose should not be taken until you have discussed this with the physician.
- Increased incidence or intensity of tremor as well as worsening in patients with Parkinson’s disease has been observed
Exelon Patch FAQs
Can you shower with the Exelon patch?
The patch should stay in place with normal everyday activities, like showering or bathing.
Can I take this if I am pregnant?
There are no adequate data on the developmental risks associated with the use of Exelon in pregnant women
How long does Rivastigmine take to work?
It can take several weeks to see the benefit of Exelon, but the maximal inhibition of anticholinesterase is seen 5 hours after the dose.
What are the side effects of Exelon?
The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, anorexia, dyspepsia, and asthenia.
Does Exelon help dementia?
Exelon is used to treat dementia-related to Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease
What happens if you stop taking Exelon?
Stopping Exelon suddenly can cause behavioral changes. Contact your doctor before stopping Exelon.
Related Drugs
Reference:
Exelon Patch {package insert}. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation; 2016.
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2007/022083lbl.pdf
Author: Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Dr. Roybal is a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist who has practiced in both ambulatory and acute care settings. Her pharmacy interests include oncology and general inpatient pharmacy.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.