Rivastigmine

Uses of Rivastigmine

Rivastigmine is commonly used to treat Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia In Parkinson's Disease

How Rivastigmine Works

Rivastigmine binds reversibly and inhibits cholinesterase, an enzyme responsible to break down acetylcholine, thus leading to increased level and activity of acetylcholine. This mechanism is said to relieve the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia in Parkinson’s Disease.

Side Effects of Rivastigmine

Extrapyramidal symptoms, CNS depression, Gut disturbances, Decreased appetite, Bradycardia, Heart block, Application site reactions, Headache, Dizziness, Tremor, Drowsiness, Insomnia

Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

Caution use has to be practised in patients with kidney impairment. Please consult your doctor.

Alcohol Not Advisable

There is no known interaction between alcohol and Rivastigmine when used concomitantly. However, it is not advisable to use alcohol during the treatment as it will worsen the symptoms of dementia.

Pregnancy Maybe Safe

There are no clinical data on the use of Rivastigmine in pregnant women. Thus, it is not advisable to be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. Please consult your doctor.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Rivastigmine may cause side effects such as dizziness or sleepiness, all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive. Furthermore, patients with Alzheimer's disease are not advisable to drive.

Liver Use With Care

Caution use has to be practised in patients with liver impairment. Please consult your doctor.

Lactation Not Advisable

Excretion of Rivastigmine has been found in animal milk but it is unknown in human breast milk. Thus, it is not advisable to be used during breastfeeding as risks cannot be excluded. Please consult your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).