Why Is the Rivastigmine Patch Used for Alzheimer's Dementia?
Alzheimer's disease is a common type of
dementia. It can interfere with cognitive functions such as memory, thought process, and language skills. The cause (or causes) of
Alzheimer's disease are not known, and there is no known cure. People sometimes confuse the
early signs of Alzheimer's disease with the normal aging process. Eventually, the disease destroys a person's ability to think, process information, and function.
- Memory loss
- Impaired ability to understand visual information
- Mood swings
- Confusion
- Deterioration of language skills
- Poor judgment
- Restlessness.
The recommended
Alzheimer's treatment varies, depending on the different
stages of Alzheimer's. Medications are usually central to treatment. The
rivastigmine patch has been approved for the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. It is not a cure for Alzheimer's, nor does it slow down the progression of the disease or prevent it from occurring. The drug can, however, help improve memory, attention, reason, language, and the ability to perform simple daily tasks.
How Does the Rivastigmine Patch Work?
The
rivastigmine patch is part of a group of medications known as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. These medications work by preventing a specific enzyme, known as acetylcholinesterase, from breaking down acetylcholine in the brain. Acetylcholine is a chemical that aids in many brain functions, including memory, attention, reason, and language. It is thought that problems with inadequate acetylcholine in the brain may contribute to some of the
symptoms of dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease or
Parkinson's disease.
Rivastigmine products (including patches, capsules, and liquid) are the only acetylcholinesterase inhibitors approved to treat dementia due to Parkinson's disease. The other medications in this class are approved to treat Alzheimer's dementia only.
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