Know a little about “Medicine” | What should Alzheimer’s patients pay attention to when using rivastigmine transdermal patches?

Mr. Zhao has been forgetting things that just happened recently and doesn’t recognize his friends anymore. The doctor diagnosed him with moderate Alzheimer’s disease and prescribed him a rivastigmine transdermal patch. So, what are the precautions when using this drug?

Rivastigmine is a reversible cholinesterase inhibitor that can improve cognitive dysfunction. Transdermal patches are a common dosage form of the drug, which can be applied to clean, dry, hairless, unbroken skin on the upper or lower back, upper arms, or chest, and will not be rubbed off by underwear. It is not recommended to apply it to the thighs or abdomen, and should not be applied to red, inflamed, or broken skin.

The specific dosage of rivastigmine transdermal patch should be used according to the doctor's instructions. Generally, one patch should be used at a time. When using, press hard with the palm of your hand for at least 30 seconds until the edge of the patch is firmly attached. It should be avoided from direct contact with heat sources and should not be cut before use. If adverse gastrointestinal reactions (such as nausea, vomiting) or aggravation of extrapyramidal symptoms (such as tremor) occur during use, treatment should be interrupted in time and medical treatment should be sought.