Alzheimer’s Patch – Exelon (rivastigmine transdermal system)

by Rose Broyles

You’ve heard of the nicotine patch for smokers, the birth control patch (now taken off the market due to serious and deadly side effects ), and now there is a patch for Alzheimer‘s.

Excelon Patch

This is the first and only patch  used for people with mild-moderate forms of dementia,  both Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. It provides a continuous release of the medicine into the blood stream for 24 hours a day. It helps improve cognition skills, memory and communication skills in those suffering from the disease.

Where to place it

• The patch can be placed on the upper and lower back area,  chest, and upper arm. Just like other patches, showering or bathing should not affect its adhesiveness.  However, it should not be exposed to the sun or in a sauna for long periods of time.
• Change it every 24 hours and don’t place it on the same spot each time for at least 14 days.
• This medicine should not be taken with others with the same type of treatnment factors. Make sure to talk to the doctor or pharmacist regarding any other medication you or your loved one is taking.
• If you or your loved one is going to have surgery, make sure to tell the doctor because the medicine of the patch exaggerates the effects of some muscle relaxants during anesthesia.

Side Effects

As with all drugs, there are side effects involved with using the Exelon patch. Most common include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea

People with risks of ulcers should inform the doctor to see if it’s ok to take this drug. Serious stomach problems or bleeding may occur.

Other effects include:

• Fainting – for pre-existing heart conditions
• dizziness.

People with lung conditions, bladder problems or seizures should check with their doctor before getting on the patch.

For more information check http://www.exelonpatch.com

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