Rivastigmine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Buying Tips

Rivastigmine is a medicine used to ease thinking and memory problems in people with Alzheimer’s disease and in dementia linked to Parkinson’s. It won’t cure the disease, but many people find it helps slow symptom decline and make day-to-day tasks easier for a while.

It comes as pills and a skin patch. The pill is usually taken twice a day, while the patch delivers medicine continuously over 24 hours. The patch can be easier for people who forget doses or who have stomach upset from pills.

Rivastigmine works by boosting a brain chemical called acetylcholine that helps nerve cells talk to each other. Doctors pick this drug when memory and thinking changes are significant but not at a late stage where other issues dominate. Many know the brand name Exelon, but generic rivastigmine is common and effective.

What to expect and common side effects

Start low and go slow. Typical treatment begins at a low dose and rises every couple of weeks until the doctor finds the right level. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, dizziness, and headache. Most of these ease with time or when the dose is adjusted.

Watch for more serious signs: fainting, slow heartbeat, severe stomach bleeding, or sudden worsening of breathing. Also tell your doctor about heart disease, asthma, stomach ulcers, or seizures before starting rivastigmine. Don’t stop the drug abruptly without medical advice—sudden stopping can worsen symptoms.

Practical tips for patients and caregivers

If using the patch, place it on clean, dry, hairless skin and rotate sites. If the pill causes nausea, take it with food. Weigh the patient weekly at first to catch unwanted weight loss. Keep a short log of behavior, sleep, and appetite—this helps the doctor decide if the dose is right. Regular follow-ups are key: blood pressure, heart rate, and overall function should be checked periodically.

Also review all other meds. Drugs that block acetylcholine can reduce rivastigmine’s benefits, while some heart or stomach drugs may interact. Ask a pharmacist to review interactions when any new medicine is added.

Thinking of buying rivastigmine online? Use a licensed pharmacy and always have a prescription. Check the pharmacy’s contact info, read customer reviews, and avoid sellers offering unusually low prices or no prescription. Make sure packaging is sealed and expiration dates are clear. If you have questions about dosing or side effects, contact a pharmacist or your doctor before ordering.

Want other info? Our site has posts on medication safety, alternatives, and how to shop for prescriptions online. If you need help finding a trustworthy seller or understanding a prescription, reach out to a healthcare professional or a licensed pharmacist for personalized advice.