Rivastigmine Patch

The rivastigmine patch is a prescription drug that is used for treating dementia in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease. It is applied to the skin once daily, usually on the upper or lower back, upper arms, or chest. Potential side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. The rivastigmine patch cannot cure dementia, but may help improve cognitive function.

 

What Is the Rivastigmine Patch?

The rivastigmine patch (Exelon® Patch) is a prescription medication approved to treat mild to moderate dementia due to Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease. Although the patch is not a cure for these diseases, it can help with some of the symptoms. The rivastigmine patch provides the benefits of once-daily dosing and continuous release of the medication.
 
(Click What Is the Rivastigmine Patch Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Side Effects of the Rivastigmine Patch

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with the rivastigmine patch. However, not everyone who uses the medication will experience side effects. In fact, many people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, they are often minor and either require no treatment or can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
 
Common side effects of the rivastigmine patch include but are not limited to:
 
(Click Side Effects of the Rivastigmine Patch to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;