rivastigmine, exelon
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Rivastigmine

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Rivastigmine Exelon, rivastigmine Adult

Rivastigmine - Dosage and How to Use

How should Rivastigmine be used?

​Take/Use this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the instructions on the medicine label or as advised by the pharmacist.

 If you are taking the capsules

  • Take the capsules after food to minimize stomach discomfort

If you are using the patches

  • Before applying the patch, make sure that your skin is clean, dry and hairless, free of any powder, oil, moisturizer or lotion, and free of cuts or rashes
  • Ensure that the previous patch is removed before applying a new patch
  • Change the patch at the same time each day
  • The patch can be applied to: Upper arms, upper chest (avoid breast), upper back or lower back area on your body
  • Alternate the site of application each time. Avoid applying the patch to the same area of skin until at least 14 days have passed.
  • Activities such as swimming, bathing or showering should not affect the patch. In the event that the patch falls off, apply a new one for the rest of the day. Replace it at your usual time the next day.
  • Avoid  use of heat sources such as tanning beds and hot tubs
  • Do not cut the patch

This medicine may not have an effect immediately. It may take up to a few weeks before the medication can exert its full effects. Continue taking/using it regularly to benefit from it.

Check with your doctor on the duration of treatment that is suitable for you.

Do not stop taking/using this medicine abruptly or change the dose without consulting your doctor.

Avoid taking alcohol while you are on this medicine.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

​If you are taking the capsule

  • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, with a meal. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one at your usual timing.
  • Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.

If you are using the patch:

  • If it has been less than 3 days since you last applied the patch, apply one patch immediately. Change the patch at your usual timing the next day.
  • If it has been more than 3 days since you last applied the patch, consult your doctor before applying it again. You may need to be restarted on a lower dose.
  • Do not apply 2 patches to make up for the missed dose

What should I do if I overdose?

If you take/use more of this medicine then prescribed by your doctor, please consult your doctor immediately.

Rivastigmine - Additional Information

​What are the things I need to know or look out for while on this medicine?

  • Avoid driving or any other activities that requires concentration until you see how this drug affects you.
  • Inform your other healthcare professionals that you are on this medicine as well.
  • Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before you take any other medicines or natural products
  • Do not share your medicines with others.
  • Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about your medicine.

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