Rivastigmine (By Mouth)

Rivastigmine (ri-va-STIG-meen)

Treats dementia (memory loss and mental changes) that is a sign of Alzheimer's disease.

Brand Name(s):

Exelon
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to rivastigmine.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Take this medicine with food. You will usually take Exelon® once in the morning and once in the evening, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
• The oral liquid medicine comes with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using pain or arthritis medicine (such as aspirin, Advil®, Aleve®, Dolobid®, Feldene®, Indocin®, Motrin®, Orudis®, Relafen®, Voltaren®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, asthma or other breathing problems, or a history of stomach ulcers.
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without asking your doctor. You may need to slowly decrease your dose before stopping it completely.
• If you haven't taken your medicine for several days in a row, do not start taking it again without talking to your doctor. You may need to start the medicine again using a lower dose.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
• Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. You may need to stop using this medicine several days before having surgery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Bloody or black, tarry stools
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, weight loss
• Redness, blistering, or peeling of your skin
• Tremors or shaking
• Trouble breathing, muscle weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Headache
• Sweating more than usual
• Tiredness or weakness
• Trouble sleeping

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.