Exelon - Rivastigmine

What is it?

Composition

Exelon contains the active substance rivastigmine, which is the main component responsible for the therapeutic effect. Rivastigmine belongs to the class of cholinesterase inhibitors, substances that increase the level of acetylcholine in the brain.

In addition to the active substance, Exelon includes a number of auxiliary components, which may vary depending on the form of the drug:

• Capsules may contain such auxiliary substances as cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, talc, magnesium stearate and starch.
• The oral solution usually includes purified water, citric acid and other components to stabilize the solution.
• Transdermal patches contain inactive ingredients that provide adhesion and slow release of the active substance through the skin.

The composition of each type of drug is carefully selected to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety during use, also taking into account the convenience for the patient.

How to use?

The use of Exelon depends on the dosage form of the drug and the individual doctors instructions. It is important to strictly follow the doctors instructions and not change the dosage on your own.

1. Capsules and oral solution: Take with food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. The initial dose is usually low and gradually increased to achieve the optimal effect. The solution can be mixed with water or another liquid, but it is important to follow the dosage recommendations.
2. Transdermal patches: The patch should be applied to clean, dry, and unbroken skin, preferably on the upper back, chest, or shoulder. The patch should be changed every 24 hours, choosing a new place on the body, avoiding applying it to the same place twice in a row.
3. Dosage adjustment: The doctor may adjust the dose depending on the bodys response to the drug, as well as the presence of side effects. If you miss a dose, it is important to follow the instructions provided by your doctor and not double the next dose.

Regardless of the dosage form, the use of Exelon requires regular monitoring by a doctor to assess the effectiveness and safety of therapy.

How does it work?

Exelon works by affecting the chemical processes in the brain that are associated with memory and cognitive functions. The main active ingredient of the drug, rivastigmine, belongs to a class of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. This enzyme is responsible for the destruction of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in the transmission of nerve impulses between brain cells.

In dementia, especially those associated with Alzheimers disease and Parkinsons disease, acetylcholine levels decrease, which leads to deterioration in cognitive function, memory, and learning ability. Rivastigmine, by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, slows the breakdown of acetylcholine, increasing its concentration in the brain. This helps improve the transmission of signals between neurons, which, in turn, can lead to a slowdown in the progression of dementia symptoms and an improvement in cognitive function in patients.

Its important to note that Exelon does not treat the cause of dementia, but it does help slow down the process of neuronal destruction and temporarily improve or stabilize symptoms such as memory loss, disorientation, and difficulty performing daily tasks.

Indications

Exelon is prescribed for the treatment of cognitive impairment associated with neurodegenerative diseases. The main indications for the use of this drug are:

• Dementia in Alzheimers disease - Exelon helps to cope with symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, difficulty thinking and performing everyday tasks.
• Dementia in Parkinsons disease - the drug improves cognitive function, reduces the severity of disorientation and improves the overall quality of life of patients with this diagnosis.
• Mild to moderate cognitive impairment - Exelon can be used in the early stages of dementia, when the patient still retains the ability to live independently, but already experiences difficulties with memory and concentration.

The use of Exelon helps to slow the progression of dementia symptoms, which can significantly improve the quality of life of both patients and their loved ones, providing more time to adapt to the changes associated with the disease.

Contraindications

The use of Exelon has a number of contraindications that must be taken into account before starting treatment. The drug is not recommended or is completely contraindicated in the following cases:

• Hypersensitivity to rivastigmine or any of the excipients of the drug - if you are allergic to the active substance or other ingredients, there is a risk of serious allergic reactions.
• Severe liver dysfunction - in patients with severe liver disease, the metabolism of the drug is impaired, which can lead to an increase in its concentration in the blood and an increase in side effects.
• Recent gastrointestinal disorders, such as stomach or intestinal ulcers, since Exelon can increase the risk of new ulcers or worsen existing ones.
• Severe bradycardia (slow heartbeat) or other cardiac arrhythmias - the drug can increase the symptoms of these conditions, which is life-threatening for the patient.

Before starting to take Exelon, it is important to undergo a complete medical examination and discuss with your doctor all existing diseases and medications taken in order to exclude possible contraindications and avoid adverse reactions.

Side effects

Like any medicine, Exelon can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Some of the most common side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting – these symptoms most often occur at the beginning of treatment or when the dose is increased, but may decrease as the body gets used to the drug.
• Dizziness – this condition may occur, especially when standing up suddenly, which is due to the effect of the drug on the nervous system.
• Diarrhea or constipation – gastrointestinal upset is relatively common, but usually goes away with time or after dose adjustment.
• Decreased appetite and weight loss – some patients may experience a decrease in appetite, which sometimes leads to unwanted weight loss.
• Headaches – headaches may occur throughout the course of treatment, although most are mild and go away on their own.

If severe or persistent side effects occur, it is important to consult a doctor to adjust the dose or change the form of the drug. Monitoring the patients condition, especially during the first weeks of treatment, helps reduce the risk of serious reactions and improve the effectiveness of treatment.