Rivastigmine

About Rivastigmine

This belongs to the group of medicines known as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors.

Rivastigmine is used to treat mild to moderate dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Rivastigmine cannot cure dementia or Alzheimer's disease but it can slow down the progression of dementia and can help to ease the symptoms. It works by increasing the amount of a natural chemical in the brain which is known to be lower in people suffering from Alzheimer's dementia.

Rivastigmine is available in capsule and oral solution form.

The brand available is: Exelon. You may notice the use of either of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking Rivastigmine

Before taking Rivastigmine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from liver, kidney or heart problems
• if you suffer from Parkinson's disease, stomach ulcers, asthma or epilepsy
• if you have problems urinating (passing water)
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to take Rivastigmine

• Always read the manufacturer’s information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Take your medicine as directed by your doctor.
• Swallow each dose of Rivastigmine whole, not crushed or chewed, with a drink of water.
• If you are taking Rivastigmine twice a day, ideally it should be taken with or immediately after breakfast and your evening meal.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Never take more than your doctor has recommended. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of Rivastigmine, tell your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Always take the container with you.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any ‘over-the-counter’ medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe to take alongside Rivastigmine.
• It may take several weeks before Rivastigmine appears to take effect. You should not stop taking your medication unless directed by your doctor.
• If you miss taking your tablets for several days speak to your doctor as they may want you to start back on a lower dose.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental and emergency treatment, tell your doctor, dentist or surgeon you are taking Rivastigmine.
• Rivastigmine can cause drowsiness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
• Keep your regular appointment with your doctor so your progress can be checked.

Can Rivastigmine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Weakness, loss of appetite, weight loss, dizziness, feeling or being sick, drowsiness, tummy pain, agitation, confusion, diarrhoea, indigestion, headache, difficulty sleeping, sweating, generally feeling unwell, shakiness, restlessness, muscle stiffness, difficulty moving or walking, fainting, depression, chest pain, rash, hallucinations. Sometimes there can be a worsening of symptoms in patients with Parkinson's disease.

If you experience any other symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Rivastigmine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 29/03/2005