Indications
- Rivastigmine is used for treating confusion (dementia) associated with Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
- It does not cure these conditions but may enhance memory, awareness, and daily functioning.
- The medication operates by restoring the balance of natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.
Dosage and administration
- Before starting rivastigmine, read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
- Take the medication orally with food, as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily (morning and evening). The dosage is adjusted based on your medical condition and response, starting with a low dose to minimize side effects and gradually increasing over 2 to 4 weeks.
- Use the medication regularly to maximize its benefits; take it at the same times daily. Do not stop unless instructed by your doctor, and do not exceed the prescribed frequency.
- If you miss rivastigmine for 3 or more days, consult your doctor before restarting; restarting at a lower dose may be necessary.
- Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.
Side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite/weight loss, diarrhea, weakness, dizziness, drowsiness, and shakiness (tremor) may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. These effects typically arise when starting or increasing the dose and usually diminish over time. Inform your doctor or pharmacist if these effects persist or worsen.
- The medication is prescribed because your doctor deems the benefits greater than the risk of side effects. Many users do not experience serious side effects.
- Notify your doctor promptly if you encounter serious side effects, such as slow heartbeat, black stools, vomit resembling coffee grounds, severe stomach/abdominal pain, seizures, or difficulty urinating.
- Seek immediate medical help for very serious side effects, including fast/irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, or fainting.
- While a severe allergic reaction is rare, get medical help if you observe symptoms like rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- The provided information does not cover all possible side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist if you notice other effects not listed.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergy to rivastigmine, including experiencing a rash with rivastigmine patches, or other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may cause allergic reactions.
- Before using this medication, disclose your medical history, especially breathing/lung problems, stomach/intestinal issues, heart disease, fainting, seizures, and problems urinating.
- Rivastigmine may cause QT prolongation, which can lead to serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat. Inform your doctor if you have certain heart conditions, a family history of such problems, or low levels of potassium/magnesium. Discuss all medications you are taking with your doctor.
- This drug may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid activities requiring alertness until you can do them safely. Limit alcohol and marijuana use, and consult your doctor if using marijuana.
- Before surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all products you use, including prescription and nonprescription drugs and herbal products.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, especially QT prolongation.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly needed. Discuss risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is unknown if the drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.