Brand name:
Exelon (Rivastigmine)
Pronounced: ECKS-ell-on
Generic name: Rivastigmine tartrate
Why is Exelon prescribed?
Exelon is used in the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.
Alzheimer's disease causes physical changes in the brain that disrupt
the flow of information and interfere with memory, thinking, and behavior.
By boosting levels of the chemical messenger acetylcholine, Exelon
can temporarily improve brain function in some Alzheimer's sufferers,
though it does not halt the progress of the underlying disease. Exelon
may become less effective as the disease progresses.
Most important fact about Exelon
Patience is in order when starting Exelon. It can take up to 12 weeks
before Exelon's full benefits appear.
How should you take Exelon?
Exelon should be taken with food in the morning and in the evening.
If you miss a dose Exelon (Rivastigmine)
Give the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time
for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular
schedule. Never double the dose.
Storage instructions Exelon (Rivastigmine)
Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container.
Exelon side effects
Side effects from Exelon cannot be anticipated. If any side effects
develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible.
Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue taking Exelon.
* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, accidental injury, anxiety, aggression, confusion, constipation,
depression, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, fainting, fatigue, flu-like
symptoms, gas, hallucinations, headache, high blood pressure, increased sweating,
indigestion, inflamed nasal passages, insomnia, loss of appetite, nausea,
tremor, unwell feeling, urinary infection, vomiting, weakness, weight loss
Why should Exelon not be prescribed?
Exelon cannot be used if it causes an allergic reaction.
Special warnings about Exelon
Exelon often causes nausea and vomiting, especially at the beginning
of treatment. The problem is more likely in women, but it can lead
to significant weight loss in both women and men. Tell your doctor
immediately if these side effects occur.
The chance of severe vomiting increases when Exelon is given after
an interruption of several days. Do not start giving the drug again
without first checking with the doctor. Dosage may need to be reduced
to the lowest starting level.
Exelon may aggravate asthma and other breathing problems and can increase
the risk of seizures. Other drugs of its type are also known to increase
the chance of ulcers, stomach bleeding, and urinary obstruction, although
these problems have not been noted with Exelon. Drugs in this category
can also slow the heartbeat, possibly causing fainting in people who
have a heart condition. Contact your doctor if any of these problems
occur.
Exelon has not been tested in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Exelon
If Exelon is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before combining Exelon with the following:
Bethanechol (Urecholine)
Drugs that control spasms, such as Bentyl, Donnatal, and Levsin.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Exelon is not intended for women of child-bearing age, and its effects
during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not been studied.
Recommended dosage for Exelon
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you
suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
* Symptoms of Exelon overdose may include: Collapse, convulsions,
breathing difficulty, extreme muscle weakness (possibly ending in death
if breathing muscles are affected), low blood pressure, salivation,
severe nausea, slow heartbeat, sweating, vomiting
