Rivastigmine Transdermal Patch - 24 hour Health Article

Generic name(s):

Rivastigmine Transdermal Patch - 24 hour

Brand name(s):

Exelon

What is this medicine?

RIVASTIGMINE (ri va STIG meen) is used to treat mild to moderate dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• heart disease
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• lung or breathing disease, like asthma
• seizures
• slow, irregular heartbeat
• stomach or intestine disease, ulcers, or stomach bleeding
• trouble passing urine
• an unusual or allergic reaction to rivastigmine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Always remove the old patch before you apply a new one. Apply to skin right after removing the protective liner. Do not cut or trim the patch. Apply to an area of the upper arm, chest, or back that is clean, dry and hairless. Avoid injured, irritated, oily, or calloused areas or where the patch will be rubbed by tight clothing or a waistband. Do not place over an area where lotion, cream, or powder was recently used. Press firmly in place until the edges stick well. To prevent skin irritiation, do not apply to the same place more than once every 14 days. Change your patch at the same time each day. Do not use more often than directed. Do not stop using except on your doctor's advice.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, remove the old patch and replace it with a new one as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• antihistamines for allergy, cough, and cold
• atropine
• certain medicines for bladder problems like oxybutynin, tolterodine
• certain medicines for Parkinson's disease like benztropine, trihexyphenidyl
• certain medicines for stomach problems like dicyclomine, hyoscyamine
• glycopyrrolate
• ipratropium
• certain medicines for travel sickness like scopolamine
• medicines that relax your muscles for surgery
• other medicines for Alzheimer's disease

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.