Exelon Patch (Rivastigmine)

Do’s

• Before initiating the use of this medication and with each refill, review the Patient Information Leaflet, if provided by your pharmacist. Adhere to all instructions regarding the proper application and usage of the patches. For any queries, seek guidance from your healthcare provider.
• Apply the patch to the skin as instructed by your healthcare provider, typically once daily. 
• Upon opening the pouch, remove the patch from the protective liner without cutting it. Apply the patch as directed to a clean, dry, hairless area on the back, upper arm, or chest. Prior to applying a new patch, remove the old one.
• It is permissible to bathe with the patch on.
• When replacing the patch, discard the old one by folding it in half with the sticky sides together and disposing of it away from children and pets. Apply a new patch to a different area to prevent skin irritation.
• If the patch falls off before its scheduled change, promptly apply a new patch and replace the new patch at the regular time the following day.
• After each application, wash your hands with soap and water. If the medication comes into contact with your eyes or causes redness, rinse your eyes immediately with water and inform your healthcare provider if the redness or other symptoms persist.
• Dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. To minimize the risk of side effects, such as nausea and diarrhea, your healthcare provider will likely initiate the medication using a lower patch dose and may escalate the dosage after 4 weeks. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions.
• Consistent use of this medication is essential for optimal benefit. To aid in memory, change your patch at the same time each day.
• Should you discontinue the use of Exelon Patch for 3 or more consecutive days, consult your healthcare provider before resuming, as you may need to restart at a lower dose.

Don’t

• Refrain from opening the sealed pouch until you are ready to use it.
• Avoid wearing two patches simultaneously, and do not apply the patch to red/irritated/broken skin or areas where creams or lotions have been applied. 
• Avoid areas where tight clothing may dislodge the patch. 
• Avoid applying a new patch to the same area for at least 2 weeks.
• Refrain from attempting to reapply the old patch or using tape to secure a loose patch.
• Avoid touching your eyes while handling the patch
• Refrain from increasing your dosage or using the patch more frequently than prescribed, and avoid applying more than one patch per day or leaving the patch on for longer than prescribed.

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Upper abdominal pain
• Feeling tired, weak, or dizzy
• Headaches
• Skin irritation at the application site
• Decreased weight
• Agitation
• Drowsiness
• Sweating
• General feeling of being unwell
• Seeing or hearing things that are not there
• Wheezing
• Trouble breathing

Not everyone experiences these side effects, and the severity and occurrence of side effects can vary from person to person. If you experience any of these side effects, inform your healthcare provider promptly.

Exelon Patch may interact with other medications, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines and substances you use, including smoking, alcohol consumption, or use of illegal drugs.

Consult a healthcare provider before using Exelon Patch and taking any new medication, changing your diet, or starting or stopping any course of treatment.

Exelon Patch should not be used by individuals with a known hypersensitivity to rivastigmine, other carbamate derivatives, or other components of the formulation. Previous history of application-site reactions suggestive of allergic contact dermatitis with Exelon Patch is also a contraindication for use.

Consult your healthcare provider before using Exelon Patch during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as there may be limited human studies available. Seek professional medical advice in these situations.

Significant gastrointestinal adverse reactions, including nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and weight loss, have been reported with the Exelon Patch at higher than recommended doses. If treatment is interrupted for longer than several days, treatment should be reinitiated with the lowest daily dose and titrated.

For further details and personalized guidance, consult with your healthcare provider.