Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while using Rivastigmine patch as follows:
- The active ingredient of the patch, Rivastigmine, is rapidly and extensively metabolized by enzymes in the liver, to inactive metabolites that are significantly excreted in the urine. If liver function is deficient, the metabolism of rivastigmine could be compromised. This can lead to increased blood levels of the medication for longer periods of time, resulting in increased risk for side-effects and consequent toxicity. So, in individuals with history of compromised liver function, Rivastigmine patch could be used with caution and possible dose adjustments, periodical monitoring for liver functions and development of any toxicity symptoms with the medication.
- Rivastigmine patch can take some time to fairly adjust to your body, before any improvement with memory, cognition, and mood is experienced. So, do not discontinue on applying the patch without your physician’s consult, as you failed to see the desired result immediately after having the patch on.
- Your physician could change the dose of Rivastigmine patch, based on the relief obtained or side-effects developed. So, maintain compliance with follow-up physician appointments, to update on the relief from symptoms. Be accommodative to the plan of frequent dose changes, until you show an optimum response.
