IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
Table of Contents
- Uses and How to Use
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Medication Interactions
- Dosage and Storage
- Medication Images
Pronounced: (riv-uh-STIG-meen)
Rivastigmine Oral Uses
Rivastigmine is used to treat confusion (dementia) related to Alzheimer's disease and to Parkinson's disease. Rivastigmine does not cure either of these diseases, but it may improve memory, awareness, and the ability to perform daily functions. This medication works by restoring the balance of natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.
How To Use Rivastigmine Oral
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking rivastigmine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with food as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily in the morning and evening. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects (such as nausea and diarrhea), your doctor will start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose over 2 to 4 weeks. The maximum recommended adult dose is 6 milligrams twice a day.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. Do not stop taking it unless your doctor instructs you to do so. Do not use this drug more often than prescribed.
If you do not take rivastigmine for 3 or more days in row, talk with your doctor before starting again. You may need to restart at a lower dose.
Tell your doctor if your condition worsens.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
Information last revised November
2010
Copyright(c) 2010 First DataBank,
Inc.

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