Exelon

Uses
Exelon (Rivastigmine) is used to treat dementia which is associated with Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease. Its mode of action involves decreasing the breakdown of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. This neurotransmitter plays an important role in the brain, and contributes to the transmission of messages. It helps the brain to work properly.

Patients with Parkinson's or Alzheimer's appear to have a lower than normal level of this neurotransmitter in their brains, which may be the result of the breakdown of certain brain cells involved in the release of acetylcholine. Slowing down the process in which acetylcholine is broken down may help to provide patients with improvements in memory and brain function, however, this medicine will not cure the condition nor will it prevent worsening of the disease.

Dosage and Administration
Exelon (Rivastigmine) is provided as 1.5mg strength capsules which are administered orally. The required dosage will be carefully calculated by the doctor in charge of treatment. Adults are generally told by their doctor to start out on a daily dosage of 1.5mg, taken twice per day. If the medicine is deemed to be well tolerated by the patient 2 weeks after the commencement of treatment, the doctor may increase the dosage to 3mg, administered twice per day. If the dosage is well tolerated 2 weeks (or more) after this increase, the doctor may instruct the patient to take 4.5mg twice per day, and another increase to 6mg twice per day may be ordered by the doctor at least 2 weeks after the previous increase.

Side effects
Use of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor Exelon (Rivastigmine) may result in side effects, such as:

• Headache
• Weight loss
• Poor appetite
• Stomach discomfort
• Pain occurring in the abdomen

All side effects that occur while taking this medicine must be reported to the doctor in charge of treatment. Immediate medical treatment will be necessary if any serious side effects occur, such as severe and persistent diarrhoea, pain that occurs while urinating, seizures, tremors, itching and irritated skin or any other severe reactions that have not been listed here.

Precautions
All patients taking this medicine must have a responsible caregiver who will be able to ensure that they can take this medicine as needed.

Should treatment need to be temporarily stopped for any reason, the doctor will require the patient to take the lowest daily dosage when recommencing treatment, which may then be further adjusted upon the instruction of the doctor.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Exelon (Rivastigmine) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.