Indications 

Exelon is a prescription medicine indicated to treat mild to moderate symptoms of dementia associated with Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. 

Exelon belongs to the class of drugs called cholinesterase inhibitors and acts by inhibiting the enzymatic activity of cholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine. 

This mechanism of action subsequently leads to an increase in acetylcholine concentration in the brain, resulting in therapeutic benefits in memory and cognitive function. 

Use and Dosage 

Before starting treatment with Exelon and every time you get a refill, carefully read its patient information leaflet and medication guide. Seek the guidance of your physician or pharmacist if you have any questions or clarifications. 

Exelon dosage is individualized based on the patient’s medical condition and response to the treatment. It is typically administered twice daily with meals, once in the morning and once in the evening. 

To mitigate adverse effects like nausea and diarrhea, healthcare providers usually initiate treatment with Exelon at a low dose and gradually increase it over 2 to 4 weeks. 

Take Exelon regularly to achieve optimal results. Adhere to your doctor’s instructions very closely and do not alter the prescribed dosage or frequency of administration without medical guidance. 

Discontinuing Exelon should not be undertaken unless specifically directed by a physician. If you miss three or more consecutive doses, consult your doctor before resuming, as a lower dosage may be necessary. 

Side Effects 

Potential adverse reactions associated with the use of Exelon are listed below. If any of them last or worsen, promptly notify your physician. 

Common Side Effects 

• Upset stomach, nausea, or vomiting 
• Loss of appetite 
• Weakness 

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea, weight loss, loss of appetite 
• Bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit resembling coffee grounds 
• Light-headedness or fainting 
• Uncontrolled shaking, restlessness in the eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck 
• Convulsions 
• Painful or difficult urination 
• Severe skin irritation or itching 
• Dehydration symptoms including: 
  • Excessive thirst 
  • Inability to urinate 
  • Profuse sweating 
  • Hot or dry skin 

Call your doctor right away if any of the severe symptoms listed above are experienced. 

Allergic Reactions 

Prompt medical attention should be sought if any signs of an allergic reaction to Exelon are exhibited, such as: 

• Hives 
• Difficult breathing 
• Swelling or itching of face, lips, tongue, or throat 

The adverse effects of Exelon listed here are not exhaustive. Call your physician promptly if any unmentioned side effects occur and cause discomfort. 

Cautions 

Before taking Exelon, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any known allergies, especially to rivastigmine. Inactive ingredients of this medication may trigger allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. 

To ensure Exelon is safe for you, inform your physician or pharmacist of your medical history, particularly any of the following conditions: 

• Respiratory or lung problems (e.g., asthma, COPD – chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) 
• Stomach or intestinal issues (e.g., ulcers, bleeding) 
• Heart disease (e.g., sick sinus syndrome, other conduction disorders) 
• History of fainting or seizures 
• Difficulties urinating (e.g., due to an enlarged prostate). 

Aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, and metoclopramide may interact with Exelon 

Always check prescription and over-the-counter medication labels as several medications contain pain relievers/fever reducers (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. Concurrent use of Exelon and these medications may raise the risk of stomach or intestinal bleeding. 

To prevent such drug interaction and adverse reactions, inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medications, dietary supplements, vitamins, and herbal products you are presently using or planning to use. 

Low-dose aspirin (usually 81-162 milligrams per day) prescribed by your physician for specific medical reasons, such as heart attack or stroke prevention, should be continued. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for additional information. 

Periodic evaluation of driving and complex machinery operation is recommended for dementia patients with Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease who are on Exelon. The gradual impairment of driving ability or difficulty in operating machinery associated with their condition may be exacerbated by the dizziness and drowsiness caused by Exelon, particularly during treatment initiation or dose escalation. 

During pregnancy, Exelon should only be utilized when it is necessary and recommended by a physician after a thorough discussion of the potential risks and benefits. 

The excretion of rivastigmine into human milk is uncertain. Consult your healthcare provider before nursing an infant while taking this medication.