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Rivastigmine Transdermal System (RIVASTIGMINE PATCH - TRANSDERMAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • Alzheimer's disease
  • dementia

Brand Name(s): Exelon

Generic Name: Rivastigmine

Instructions

DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.

Avoid placing the patch near the breast.

Remove the patch after 24 hours.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

This patch should not be cut.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Remove old patch before applying new one. Change the location of the new patch.

Remove the plastic liner that protects the sticky side of the patch before applying to the skin.

Be sure the area of skin is clean and dry before putting on a new patch.

Do not use soap, oils, or alcohol on the area of the skin before applying the patch. Use only water and gently pat dry. Do not rub the skin.

Apply the patch to a clean, dry, hairless area. Avoid skin that is red, scraped, or damaged.

Press the patch firmly for a few seconds to make sure it stays in place.

If the patch does not stick, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Do not cover the patch with bandage or tape unless instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

After removing the patch, fold it together and discard it out of reach of children and pets.

Do not dispose of a used patch by flushing it into the toilet.

Avoid getting the medicine in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash your hands after touching patch.

To avoid skin irritation, wait at least two weeks before using the patch on same location again.

If the patch falls off, apply a new a patch on a different location of the body.

If the patch falls off or you forgot to use the patch on time, apply a new patch immediately to a different location. Replace this new patch at your next usual dosing time.

Do not apply heat on the area with the patch. Avoid heating blankets, suntan beds, or hot tubs.

Clothing may be worn over the patch.

Avoid activities that can increase the body temperature. Tell your doctor if you have fever.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not use more than 1 patch at any one time.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Tell your doctor if you have severe or persistent sweating, diarrhea or vomiting. These can increase your risk of a serious side effect.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Call your doctor if you have a skin reaction that does not improve within 2 days of removing the patch.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • decreased appetite
  • diarrhea
  • dizziness
  • nausea and vomiting
  • skin irritation where medicine is applied
  • weight loss

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • severe or persistent abdominal pain
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • drowsiness or sedation
  • fainting
  • fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
  • seizures
  • shakiness
  • dark, tarry stool
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.