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Rivastigmine

This form:

Pronounced

"riv-uh-STIG-meen"

Common brand names:

Exelon

Uses

Rivastigmine is used to treat confusion (dementia) related to Alzheimer's disease and to Parkinson's disease. Rivastigmine does not cure either of these diseases, but it may improve memory, awareness, and the ability to perform daily functions. This medication works by restoring the balance of natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking rivastigmine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with food as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily (in the morning and evening). The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects (such as nausea and diarrhea), your doctor will start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose over 2 to 4 weeks.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. Do not stop taking it unless your doctor instructs you to do so. Do not use this drug more often than prescribed.

If you do not take rivastigmine for 3 or more days in row, talk with your doctor before starting again. You may need to restart at a lower dose.

Tell your doctor if your condition worsens.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

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Information expires December 2024.