Exelon (generic name: rivastigmine; brand names include: Rivamer) belongs to a group of medicines called acetylcholinesterase inhibitors.

Exelon is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderately severe dementia of the Alzheimer type, also known as Alzheimer's Disease.

Exelon helps to slow down the mental decline that happens in people with Alzheimer's disease and it helps to improve the ability to cope with everyday activities.

Exelon works by increasing the amount of a certain substance (acetylcholine) in the brain. This may help reduce symptoms of dementia in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

Exelon is not addictive.

Recommendations

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Take Exelon exactly as directed.

Exelon is usually taken twice a day with meals in the morning and evening. The usual starting dose is 1.5 mg twice a day. After two weeks, if you don't have any problems with the medicine, the dose may be gradually increased up to a maximum of 6 mg twice a day.

Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water or other liquid. Do not open or crush the capsules.

Take Exelon at about the same time each day. Taking your capsules at the same time each day will have the best effect. It will also help you remember when to take the capsules.

Take Exelon on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it. Continue taking Exelon for as long as your doctor tells you to.

If you forget to take Exelon, take it as soon as you remember, and then go back to taking it as you would normally. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one that you missed. Contact your doctor if you miss several doses of Exelon. Your doctor may need to restart your medicine at a lower dose to avoid side effects.

Store the capsules at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.

Precautions

Before taking Exelon, tell your doctor if:

you are allergic to any medicines;
you have a severe liver disorder, stomach ulcer, heart or lung problems, or seizures;
you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Ingredients

Active ingredient: rivastigmine.