There is nothing more painful than watching someone we love, like our mother, father, grandmother, or aunt, gradually forget everything. Rivastigmine is a drug that doctors prescribe to control this memory loss, that is, dementia, which comes with conditions like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. So today, let's talk about this drug, what it does, and what things to be careful about while using it.
What kind of medicine is Rivastigmine?
Simply put, Rivastigmine is a medication that is used to treat mild to moderate dementia, that is, symptoms of memory loss, caused by Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease.
Imagine that there are little messengers in our brain that carry information back and forth. We call these neurotransmitters. In diseases like Alzheimer's, the function of these messengers is impaired. Rivastigmine helps a chemical that helps this message transfer stay in the brain longer. This helps maintain memory, thinking ability, and the ability to perform daily tasks to some extent.
Important: This medication cannot completely cure Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease. However, it can greatly help control symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life.
This medication can be found on the market under brand names such as Exelon.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
For your safety or that of your loved one, it is important to tell your doctor the following information before starting this medication. Do not hide anything.
- Heart disease: If you have a condition such as heart disease, irregular heartbeat, or low heart rate.
- Breathing difficulties: If you have a lung or breathing disease, such as asthma.
- Intestinal problems: If you have had conditions such as stomach ulcers or intestinal bleeding.
- Kidney or liver disease: If there is any problem with the functioning of the kidneys or liver.
- Difficulty urinating: If you have difficulty urinating or have a related condition.
- Epilepsy or seizures: If you have had seizures before.
- Allergies: If you have an allergy to Rivastigmine or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Once the doctor is aware of these things, he can determine the most appropriate dosage of medication for you.
How should I use this medicine?
This is very simple, but very important.
1. Take with food: This medicine should always be taken with food . It is generally recommended to take it with breakfast and dinner.
2. Drink with a glass of water: Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water.
3. Take it on time: Taking the medicine at the same time every day, exactly as prescribed by the doctor, will help you achieve better results.
4. Don't stop suddenly: Don't stop taking this medicine suddenly without your doctor's advice. Doing so may cause your symptoms to get worse again.
5. If you miss a dose: If you forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have accidentally taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to be aware of and side effects when taking medication
It is important to see your doctor regularly while taking this medication and discuss your condition. Also, this medication may make some people feel drowsy or dizzy . Therefore, it is wise to avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how this medication affects you.
| Side Effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Skin allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. These may be signs of a serious allergic reaction. Tell your doctor immediately. |
| Severe vomiting or diarrhea | If you have uncontrollable vomiting or diarrhea, this can lead to dehydration. |
| Decreased heart rate | Difficulty breathing, chest pain, abnormally slow heartbeat. |
| Severe stomach pain | If you have severe stomach pain or blood in your stool. |
| Increased confusion | If the patient's agitation, restlessness, or confusion suddenly increases. |
| Swelling or falls | If you are frequently throwing or dragging your feet. |
| Side effects that are usually nothing to worry about, but should be reported to your doctor if they persist | |
| Nausea and mild diarrhea | These are common during the initial stages of taking the medication and usually subside within a few days. |
| Loss of appetite and weight loss | You may notice a decrease in appetite. If this condition persists, tell your doctor . |
| Headache and stomach ache | These are also common side effects. If they persist, talk to your doctor. |
Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, as well as any Ayurvedic medicines, vitamins, and supplements you use. It is also important to inform your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol, as some things can interact with these medications.
How to store the medicine?
- Keep it out of the reach of children. This is very important.
- Store at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius).
- Throw away expired medication.
I hope this information is helpful to you. Remember, if you have any questions about this medication, never be afraid to ask your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Rivastigmine is a medication that controls the symptoms of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, but it is not a cure for the disease.
- Always take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor, with a meal.
- Do not stop taking the medication suddenly for any reason without your doctor's advice.
- It is essential to inform your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
- If serious side effects occur (severe vomiting, allergic reactions, decreased heart rate), contact your doctor immediately.
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