Exelon

Common Name: rivastigmine

How does Exelon work?

Rivastigmine belongs to a family of medications known as cholinesterase inhibitors. It is used to treat symptoms of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease is caused by the constant degeneration of certain nerve cells in the brain that make a chemical called acetylcholine. This chemical is thought to be important for the processes of learning and memory. Rivastigmine prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine, thereby increasing its levels in the brain. Rivastigmine provides the most benefit when there are enough cells producing adequate levels of acetylcholine (i.e., in mild to moderate disease) and provides little benefit when the disease becomes severe. Rivastigmine may improve cognitive function (memory, orientation, and language) and general ability to perform activities of daily living. Rivastigmine may take up to 12 weeks to begin working, but individual response varies. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Exelon?

The dose of rivastigmine can vary, but the recommended starting dose is 1.5 mg twice daily with food, increased gradually to the best tolerated dose. The highest dose recommended is 6 mg twice a day. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. Rivastigmine should be taken twice a day, once with breakfast and once with the evening meal. The capsules must be swallowed whole and should be taken on a regular basis every day in order to be effective. The oral solution can be withdrawn from its container using the syringe provided. It can be swallowed directly from the syringe, or mixed with a small amount of water, cold fruit juice, or soda. If you mix it into a beverage, make sure to stir and drink the full amount. This medication should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose of rivastigmine, skip the missed dose and continue regular dosing with the next scheduled dose. Do not double-up on doses. Store rivastigmine away from direct sunlight and heat.

What form(s) does Exelon come in?

Exelon® capsules are available in strengths of 1.5 mg, 3 mg, 4.5 mg, and 6 mg. 1.5 mg: Each yellow, hard gelatin capsule, with "1.5 mg" and "Exelon" printed in red on the body of the capsule, contains rivastigmine 1.5 mg. 3 mg: Each orange, hard gelatin capsule, with "3 mg" and "Exelon" printed in red on the body of the capsule, contains rivastigmine 3 mg. 4.5 mg: Each red, hard gelatin capsule, with "4.5 mg" and "Exelon" printed in white on the body of the capsule, contains rivastigmine 4.5 mg. 6 mg: Each orange-and-red, hard gelatin capsule,with "6 mg" and "Exelon" printed in red on the body of the capsule, contains rivastigmine 6 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and silicon dioxide; hard gelatin capsules: gelatin, red iron oxide and/or yellow iron oxide and titanium dioxide.

What should I NOT take with Exelon?

This medication should not to be used by anyone who is allergic to rivastigmine or to any of the ingredients of the medication.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Exelon?

Heart disease: People with certain types of heart disease (e.g., congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease) should use rivastigmine with caution. Breathing conditions: People with a history of asthma or obstructive lung disease (e.g., emphysema, chronic bronchitis) should use rivastigmine with caution. Liver and kidney function: People with reduced liver or kidney function who are taking this medication should be closely monitored by their doctors. Stomach problems: The use of rivastigmine is associated with significant stomach side effects including nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Pregnancy: Do not use this medication during pregnancy unless the expected benefits outweigh the potential risks. Breast-feeding: It is not known whether rivastigimine passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers should not take this medication.