RIVASTIGMINE - ORAL (Exelon) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

RIVASTIGMINE-ORAL Index

rivastigmine - oral, Exelon

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GENERIC NAME: RIVASTIGMINE - ORAL (riv-uh-STIG-meen)

BRAND NAME(S): 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: 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. 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. The maximum recommended adult dose is 6 milligrams twice a day.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.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite/weight loss, diarrhea, weakness, dizziness, drowsiness, and shakiness (tremor) may occur as your body adjusts to the drug. These effects usually occur when you start the medication or increase the dose and then lessen. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if any of these serious side effects occur: slow/irregular heartbeat, fainting, black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, severe stomach/abdominal pain, seizures, trouble urinating.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.