Exelon, with the active ingredient rivastigmine tartrate, is a reversible cholinesterase inhibitor. Chemically, it is (S)-N-Ethyl-N-methyl-3-[1-(dimethylamino)ethyl]-phenyl carbamate hydrogen-(2R,3R)-tartrate. This medication is available for oral administration in two forms: capsules containing rivastigmine tartrate equivalent to 1.5 mg, 3 mg, 4.5 mg, or 6 mg of rivastigmine base, and an oral solution containing rivastigmine tartrate equivalent to 2 mg/mL of rivastigmine base. Exelon is prescribed for the symptomatic treatment of specific types of dementia.

The precise mechanism of action of rivastigmine is not fully elucidated, but it is believed to exert its therapeutic effects by enhancing cholinergic neurotransmission. It achieves this by increasing the concentration of acetylcholine through the reversible inhibition of its hydrolysis by the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. This action is thought to improve cognitive function in affected patients. However, it is important to note that Exelon does not alter the underlying progression of the dementing process, and its effectiveness may diminish as the disease advances and the number of functionally intact cholinergic neurons decreases.