exelon (RIVASTIGMINE)

What is Exelon?

Exelon is primarily used to treat mild to moderate dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. It works by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which increases levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter important for memory and cognitive function. This mechanism helps improve symptoms related to thinking, memory, and daily activities in affected individuals.

What is the usual dose of Exelon?

For Alzheimer's disease in adults, take 3-6 mg of Exelon tartrate twice a day, totaling 6-12 mg daily. For Parkinson's disease dementia, take 1.5-6 mg twice a day, totaling 3-12 mg daily. The maximum daily dose is 12 mg. Gradually increase the dose over 2-4 weeks if tolerated. Information on children's dosing is not available.

How do I take Exelon?

Exelon tartrate capsules should be taken twice a day, in the morning and evening. Take them with food to lessen the chance of an upset stomach.

For how long do I take Exelon?

The typical duration of Exelon use varies based on the condition being treated:

• Alzheimer's Disease: Treatment is usually long-term, often requiring ongoing assessment every 6 to 12 months to evaluate efficacy and tolerability.
• Parkinson's Disease Dementia: Similar to Alzheimer's, it is typically used for extended periods, with regular evaluations.
• Treatment Interruption: If treatment is interrupted for more than three days, it should be restarted at a lower dose and titrated again.

Overall, Exelon is intended for continuous use as part of a comprehensive management plan for dementia.

What disease or symptom is Exelon used for?

Exelon are a type of medication used to treat mild to moderate memory problems in people with Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease. They work by increasing levels of a chemical called acetylcholine in the brain, which is thought to play a role in memory and thinking skills. Exelon tartrate capsules can help to improve memory, attention, and the ability to perform daily activities, and they may slow down the progression of dementia symptoms over time.

How long does it take for Exelon to start working?

Exelon typically takes about 12 weeks to show noticeable effects in patients. It reaches peak plasma concentrations approximately 1 hour after oral administration and 8 hours with the transdermal patch. However, the full therapeutic benefits may take longer to manifest, depending on individual responses and the specific condition being treated.

Is Exelon effective?

Exelon has been shown to be effective for treating dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease through various clinical trials. A Cochrane review of 13 randomized controlled trials involving over 3,400 patients demonstrated that those treated with Exelon exhibited significant improvements in cognitive function and daily living activities compared to placebo, with an odds ratio of 1.47 for overall improvement.

Additionally, other studies reported modest but dose-dependent benefits on cognition and function, with patients maintaining cognitive abilities over extended periods.

Overall, the evidence supports Exelon's effectiveness in enhancing cognitive and functional outcomes in individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease

How do I know if Exelon is working?

Exelon helps improve memory and thinking abilities in people with Alzheimer's disease. It works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that are important for memory and thinking. Doctors use two main ways to measure how well Exelon is working: * **ADAS-cog:** This test checks how well you can remember things, think clearly, and perform daily tasks. Lower scores on this test mean that Exelon is helping to improve your cognitive abilities. * **ADCS-CGIC:** This scale helps doctors see how your overall condition is changing. It measures things like how well you can function in daily life, how your symptoms have changed, and how your caregiver is coping with your condition. Higher scores on this scale mean that Exelon is helping to improve your overall well-being.

How does Exelon work?

Exelon, a medication used to treat Alzheimer's, works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain. It is weakly attached to proteins in the blood and easily enters the brain. Exelon is quickly broken down in the body, mainly through a chemical process called hydrolysis, and not through the liver. It is mostly removed from the body through the kidneys. The rate at which the body removes Exelon varies depending on age and weight, with older adults removing it more slowly and people with lower body weight removing it faster. Gender and race do not affect how quickly Exelon is removed from the body.

Who should avoid taking Exelon?

• Allergic Reactions: Do not use if allergic to Exelon or carbamates; previous severe skin reactions to the transdermal patch are also a contraindication.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Avoid use in patients with active gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers, as Exelon may increase the risk of bleeding.
• Heart Conditions: Caution is advised for those with a history of heart rhythm problems, seizures, or urinary retention.
• Monitoring Required: Regular monitoring is essential for signs of severe adverse effects, including gastrointestinal distress, seizures, or allergic reactions.

Can I take Exelon with other prescription drugs?

Exelon has several significant prescription drug interactions that users should be aware of:

• Hormonal Contraceptives: Exelon can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills, necessitating alternative contraceptive methods.
• Cyclosporine: Co-administration is contraindicated due to an increased risk of liver toxicity.
• Rifampin: This antibiotic may reduce the effectiveness of Exelon.
• Warfarin: Requires careful monitoring as Exelon can alter its anticoagulant effects, potentially increasing bleeding risk.
• Anticholinergic Medications: Concurrent use with anticholinergics can diminish Exelon's efficacy and increase side effects.

Can Exelon be taken safely while pregnant?

Talk to your doctor if you're pregnant or planning to get pregnant. Call Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited for more info. There's no strong evidence from human studies on how this medicine might affect an unborn baby.

Can Exelon be taken safely while breastfeeding?

• Discontinuation Decision: A decision should be made to either discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue Exelon, weighing the importance of the medication to the mother against potential risks to the infant.
• Unknown Excretion in Human Milk: It is not known if Exelon is excreted in human milk, although it has been shown to be present in animal milk.
• Limited Studies: There are no adequate studies assessing the risks of Exelon during breastfeeding, so caution is advised.

Is Exelon safe for the elderly?

**For elderly people:** * Use lower doses if they have kidney or liver problems. * People who weigh less may need their dose adjusted carefully. **Do not use Exelon with beta-blockers:** * Beta-blockers are medicines for the heart. * Using them together with Exelon can slow the heart rate too much.

How should I store Exelon?

• Temperature: Keep at room temperature between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Avoid storing above 30°C.
• Moisture and Heat: Store in a cool, dry place, away from excess heat and moisture, and do not store in the bathroom.
• Upright Position: The oral solution should be stored in an upright position.
• Child Safety: Keep out of reach of children and tightly closed in its original container.

Does Exelon make people tired or drowsy?

Yes, Exelon can cause dizziness or fatigue, particularly when starting treatment. If drowsiness affects your daily activities, avoid driving or using machinery and inform your doctor.

Does Exelon cause stomach upset?

Yes, gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea are common, occurring in more than 10% of users. Taking Exelon with food may reduce these effects. Inform your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.

Does Exelon affect sleep?

Exelon can occasionally cause sleep disturbances such as insomnia. If this happens, discuss with your doctor whether dose timing or adjustments could help manage the effect.

Does Exelon make it hard to think or concentrate?

This medicine generally improves cognitive function, but dizziness or confusion can occasionally occur, particularly at the start of treatment. If cognitive issues develop, report them to your doctor.

Does Exelon affect mood?

Mood changes are uncommon but may include agitation or anxiety. If mood disturbances significantly affect daily life, consult your doctor for potential remedies.

Does Exelon interfere with sexual function?

Exelon is not typically associated with sexual dysfunction. If issues arise, other causes may be contributing, and your doctor can help identify them.

Does Exelon affect appetite?

Exelon may decrease appetite, especially if nausea occurs. Maintaining a balanced diet can help. If significant appetite loss persists, consult your doctor.

Does Exelon cause weight gain?

Weight loss, rather than weight gain, is more likely due to reduced appetite and nausea. Notify your doctor if weight changes occur.

Does Exelon cause headaches?

Headaches can occur in less than 10% of users. Over-the-counter pain relief may help, but consult your doctor if headaches are persistent or severe.

Does Exelon limit driving?

Exelon can cause dizziness, affecting reaction time. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Exelon?

Limit or avoid alcohol while taking Exelon. Alcohol can worsen dizziness or nausea and may interfere with the medicine’s effects.

Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Exelon?

Caffeinated beverages like coffee or tea are generally safe. However, if they worsen symptoms such as jitteriness or upset stomach, reduce intake.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Exelon?

Yes, but be cautious. Exelon may cause dizziness or nausea, so avoid strenuous activity until you know how it affects you. Stay hydrated and rest if symptoms occur during exercise.

What are Exelon possible harms and risks?

Common side effects of Exelon include nausea (47%), vomiting (30%), diarrhea (20%), loss of appetite (16%), and weight loss (20-25%). Serious adverse effects can include seizures, severe allergic reactions, gastrointestinal issues leading to dehydration, and an increased risk of stomach bleeding, particularly in patients with a history of ulcers. Regular monitoring is essential for patient safety.