Exelon (Rivastigmine)

Do's

• Use the provided syringe to accurately measure your prescribed dose. 
• Swallow the medication directly from the syringe. Alternatively, mix it with water, cold fruit juice and soda (limited options).  
• Stir well and consume the entire mixture within 4 hours. 
• Consult your healthcare provider for guidance if you have any questions or concerns about using Exelon. 
• Consume Exelon with food as directed by your healthcare provider, typically twice daily (morning and evening). 
• Take Exelon regularly and as prescribed to experience optimal benefits. 
• Talk to your healthcare provider before resuming Exelon if you miss three or more consecutive doses. You might need to restart at a lower dose. 

Don'ts

• Do not store leftovers of the mixture if you choose to mix Exelon with water, cold fruit juice, or soda. 
• Avoid mixing Exelon with other liquids. 
• Do not adjust the dose or stop taking the medication without your healthcare provider's specific instructions.   

Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose based on your specific health condition and how you respond to the medication. To minimize side effects, your healthcare provider might start with a low dose and gradually increase it over 2-4 weeks. 

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite/weight loss
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Tremors (shakiness)
• Skin irritation at the application site (for transdermal patch)

Serious Side Effects:

• Slow heartbeat
• Black stools
• Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Severe stomach/abdominal pain
• Seizures
• Trouble urinating
• Fast/irregular heartbeat
• Severe dizziness
• Fainting
• Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking  Exelon,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies you have, including allergic reactions to Exelon patches.

Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider, particularly if you have:

• Breathing/lung problems (e.g., asthma, COPD)
• Stomach/intestinal issues (e.g., ulcers, bleeding)
• Heart problems (e.g., slow heartbeat)
• Fainting episodes
• Seizures
• Urinary problems

Be aware that Exelon may affect your heart rhythm (QT prolongation). This can lead to serious (rare) complications like rapid/irregular heartbeat, dizziness, and fainting. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.

The risk of QT prolongation is higher if you have:

• Certain heart conditions
• Family history of specific heart problems
• Electrolyte imbalances (low potassium or magnesium)
• Use specific medications that interact with Exelon

Exelon may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until it's safe. Limit alcohol consumption and discuss marijuana use with your healthcare provider. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take before surgery. This age group may be more susceptible to side effects, especially QT prolongation. Consult your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of using Exelon during pregnancy or breastfeeding.