Brand name:
Exelon
Pronounced: ECKS-ell-on
Generic name:
Rivastigmine tartrate
Why is Exelon prescribed?
Exelon is used in the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's
disease. Alzheimer's disease causes physical changes in the brain
that disrupt the flow of information and interfere with memory,
thinking, and behavior. By boosting levels of the chemical messenger
acetylcholine, Exelon can temporarily improve brain function in some
Alzheimer's sufferers, though it does not halt the progress of the
underlying disease. Exelon may become less effective as the disease
progresses.
Most important fact about Exelon
Patience is in order when starting Exelon. It can take up to
12 weeks before Exelon's full benefits appear.
How should you take Exelon?
Exelon should be taken with food in the morning and in the
evening.
--If you miss a dose...
Give the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost
time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the
regular schedule. Never double the dose.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container.
Exelon side effects
Side effects from Exelon cannot be anticipated. If any side
effects develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon
as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to
continue taking Exelon.
- Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain,
accidental injury,
anxiety,
aggression,
confusion,
constipation,
depression,
diarrhea,
dizziness,
drowsiness,
fainting,
fatigue,
flu-like symptoms,
gas,
hallucinations,
headache,
high blood pressure,
increased sweating,
indigestion,
inflamed nasal passages,
insomnia,
loss of appetite,
nausea,
tremor,
unwell feeling,
urinary infection,
vomiting,
weakness,
weight loss
Why should Exelon not be prescribed?
Exelon cannot be used if it causes an allergic reaction.
Special warnings about Exelon
Exelon often causes nausea and vomiting, especially at the
beginning of treatment. The problem is more likely in women, but it
can lead to significant weight loss in both women and men. Tell your
doctor immediately if these side effects occur.
The chance of severe vomiting increases when Exelon is given
after an interruption of several days. Do not start giving the drug
again without first checking with the doctor. Dosage may need to be
reduced to the lowest starting level.
Exelon may aggravate asthma and other breathing problems and can
increase the risk of seizures. Other drugs of its type are also
known to increase the chance of ulcers, stomach bleeding, and
urinary obstruction, although these problems have not been noted
with Exelon. Drugs in this category can also slow the heartbeat,
possibly causing fainting in people who have a heart condition.
Contact your doctor if any of these problems occur.
Exelon has not been tested in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Exelon
If Exelon is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of
either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially
important to check with your doctor before combining Exelon with the
following:
Bethanechol (Urecholine)
Drugs that control spasms, such as Bentyl, Donnatal, and
Levsin.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Exelon is not intended for women of child-bearing age, and its
effects during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not been studied.
Recommended dosage for Exelon
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If
you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention
immediately.
- Symptoms of Exelon overdose may include:
Collapse,
convulsions,
breathing difficulty,
extreme muscle weakness (possibly ending in death if breathing
muscles are affected),
low blood pressure,
salivation,
severe nausea,
slow heartbeat,
sweating,
vomiting
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