Rivastigmine

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

• Rivastigmine is available in a variety of formulations for administration. These include oral capsules and oral solutions, which are taken by mouth. Additionally, there are transdermal patches available, which are applied to the skin for absorption.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Rivastigmine is intended for use by adults only.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Rivastigmine or other carbamate derivatives.

• Patients with a history of allergic contact dermatitis from Rivastigmine patches should not use this medicine.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Rivastigmine may interact with anticholinergic medications (e.g., atropine and scopolamine), cholinomimetic medications (e.g., neostigmine and pyridostigmine), metoclopramide, and beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol and propranolol).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Rivastigmine can result in severe symptoms like nausea, vomiting, salivation, sweating, bradycardia, hypotension, respiratory depression, collapse, and convulsions. If an overdose is suspected, immediate medical attention is required.

• If a dose of Rivastigmine is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, if the time for the next dose is near, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule should be continued. Doubling up on doses to make up for a missed dose should be avoided.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea, ensure to take Rivastigmine with food and maintain adequate hydration.

• Dizziness and confusion can be managed by sitting or lying down until the feeling passes.

• Sweating can be managed by staying in cool environments and keeping hydrated.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Rivastigmine may cause dizziness or sleepiness. If affected, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until these effects subside.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Rivastigmine falls under pregnancy category B, meaning it should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed.

• It is not known whether Rivastigmine is excreted in human milk. Therefore, nursing mothers should consult their doctor before using this medicine.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with active or history of peptic ulcer disease, seizure disorders, pulmonary diseases like asthma or COPD, urinary obstruction, and low body weight (below 50 kg) should exercise caution when using Rivastigmine.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Following a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help support overall health.

• Regular physical activity can improve heart health and boost mood.

• Brain exercises like puzzles, reading, and memory games can help support cognitive function.

• Limiting alcohol consumption as it can interact with this medicine and increase side effects.

• Maintaining a regular sleep schedule to ensure adequate rest.

Frequently asked questions

Terms & Conditions