Exelon
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Exelon is the brand name for the prescription anti-Alzheimer's medication rivastigmine. It comes two forms: a transdermal patch, applied to skin once per day, or a capsule that is swallowed. Exelon treats mild to moderate Alheimer's, a type of dementia that impairs memory and reduces ability to communicate and perform daily activities. Exelon also treats dementia in patients who have had Parkinson's disease for at least two years, when Parkinson's is known to be the sole cause of the dementia.[1]
Exelon is manufactured by the drug company Novartis. Rivastigmine capsules are also available in generic form from Sun Pharma.[2]
 Michael_Swan | |
| Brand name for | Rivastigmine |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Novartis |
| Generic available? | Not in transdermal patch form, but as a pill |
| Generic manufacturers | Sun Pharma |
| Uses | Treating dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.[1] |
| Common side effects | Stomach pain, depression, anxiety,dizziness or a sinning feeling, diarrhea, tiredness, headaches.[3] |
| Major side effects | Ulcers, tremors, heart problems, seizures[3] |
| Warnings | Exelon use has been associated with major gastrointestinal adverse reactions, including nausea and vomiting, anorexia, serious weight loss, peptic ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding.[4] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Exelon Overview
Exelon is in a category of drugs called reversible cholinesterase inhibitors. While the exact mechanism by which rivastigmine acts is not understood, the theory is that it exerts its therapeutic effects by enhancing cholinergic function. Rivastigmine improves mental abilities like memory, thinking and reasoning by increasing the concentration of acetylcholine in the brain.[4]
Exelon patches are to be stored away from direct sunlight, and packets are to be opened just before the patch is applied. Some patients or their caregivers may choose to write the date on the patch with a ballpoint pen to keep track of when to change the Exelon dose.[1]
Prescription Drugs
Exelon Side Effects
Common side effects of Exelon include stomach pain, anxiety, dizziness or a spinning feeling, diarrhea, tiredness, headaches and depressed or unusual moods. More serious side effects include nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting or coughing up blood, black or bloody stools, tremors, restless movements in the jaw, neck, eyes, or tongue, confusion, painful or burning urination, sudden numbness or weakness, pale skin, problems with balance, speech or vision, hallucinations, and excessive bleeding or bruising.[3]
Exelon can also cause anorexia, serious weight loss, peptic ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding.[4]
Patients using the Exelon transdermal system are advised not to touch their eyes after handling the patch. In addition, patch users are instructed to avoid direct sunlight, sun lamps, saunas and other sources of heat that raise skin temperature.[3]
Also See: Namenda Coupons, Aricept Side Effects, Insulin and Alzheimer's, Mirapex Coupons, Exelon Patch Patient Assistance Programs
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References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 http://www.exelonpatch.com/home.jsp
- ↑ http://www.news-medical.net/news/20100702/Sun-Pharma-introduces-generic-rivastigmine-capsules-in-US-market.aspx
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 http://www.pharma.us.novartis.com/product/pi/pdf/exelonpatch_ppi.pdf
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 http://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?id=17370
