Exelon Patch

The active ingredient in Exelon Patch is rivastigmine. Rivastigmine belongs to a class known as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. These medications work by preventing the breakdown of a chemical known as acetylcholine and prolonging its actions. It is unknown how exactly this mechanism of action is useful in the conditions it is used for. However, use has shown it is an effective treatment for dementia symptoms in those with Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s Disease.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Exelon Patch. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Exelon Patch:

• Exelon Patch should be used exactly as prescribed. Your prescriber will decide which of the 3 strengths you will use. Only use one patch at a time.
• You can apply the Exelon Patch to your upper arm or the left or right side of the chest, upper back, or lower back.
• Typically, the Exelon Patch is changed every 24 hours, and you should change the application site each time to avoid skin irritation. The old one should be removed before applying a new one to clean, dry, hairless, and unbroken skin. Do not apply to an area of the body that will be rubbed against tight clothing or has any sort of cream, lotion, or powder on it.
• Caregivers and individuals who handle the patch should not touch their eyes after touching the patch. Avoid touching the sticky side when applying.
• Used patches may be folded on themselves and placed back in the pouch they came in to dispose of in the trash.
• You may bathe, swim, or shower with the patch on. If the patch falls off or becomes loose, and it is before the replacement time, you can apply a new patch right away and then continue with your regular schedule the next day. Do not try to reapply one that has fallen off.
• Prolonged exposure to external heat sources, such as saunas or excessive sunlight, should be avoided while wearing the patch.
• The effects of rivastigmine can vary from person to person. Some users can experience excessive dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, or fainting.
• If you miss a dose or forget to change the patch, apply it as soon as you remember. Do not use 2 patches at the same time to make up for a missed dose. However, if you miss more than 3 doses of patches, you should call your prescriber before reapplying. Your body may no longer tolerate the medication, and you may be required to restart at a lower dose.

The most common side effects of Exelon Patch include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• General skin irritation
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Dizziness
• Stomach pain
• Muscle weakness
• Trouble sleeping
• UTIs

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Exelon Patch. These adverse reactions may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of severe skin reactions such as a large rash, peeling, blistering, pain, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Signs of stomach problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, loss of appetite, weight loss, blood in your vomit or stools, coffee-ground-like vomit, or dark tarry stools.
• Seizures.
• Extrapyramidal symptoms or problems with movement and other neurological changes.
• Signs of heart problems, such as shortness of breath or an irregular heartbeat.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Exelon Patch. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Exelon Patch, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• A history of stomach ulcers
• Plans for surgery
• Heart problems
• Liver impairment
• Problems passing urine
• A history of seizures
• Tremor or problems with movement
• Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or any other breathing problem
• Low body weight (below 50 kg)
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed

Do not use the Exelon Patch if you have:

• A past allergic reaction to rivastigmine, carbamate derivatives, or any of the other components of the Exelon Patch
• A history of application-site reactions suggestive of allergic contact dermatitis

It can take several weeks for the patch to begin to work.

When Exelon Patch is used with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Metoclopramide
• Oxybutynin
• Tolterodine
• Beta blockers such as bisoprolol, metoprolol, and propranolol
• NSAIDs
• Anticholinergic medications

The patches are available in the following strengths:

• 4.6 mg/24 hours
• 9.5 mg/24 hours
• 13.3 mg/24 hours

Rivastigmine is also available in an oral solution. Patients using this dosage form can be switched to the patch under the supervision of their prescriber.

Exelon Patches should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children.

Exelon Patch is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Novartis Pharmaceuticals.

Yes, there is a generic available for this brand name.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while using Exelon Patch.

It is unknown whether using Exelon Patch during pregnancy is safe. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown if rivastigmine passes into the breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.