Exelon (Rivastigmine) for Alzheimer's

Overview
Exelon is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat mild to moderate dementia associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Exelon is also referred to by its drug name, Rivastigmine. Exelon is sometimes prescribed along with Namenda, another drug used to treat cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

Exelon is a cholinesterase inhibitor. Exelon is believed to work by slowing the breakdown of a neurotransmitter in the brain.

How do I take it?
Exelon comes in capsule, oral solution, and transdermal patch forms. Prescribing information states that oral forms of Exelon are generally taken twice a day in the morning and evening. Patches are applied once daily and left on for 24 hours.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Exelon lists common side effects including diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue, and stomach upset.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Exelon include dehydration and allergic dermatitis.