Rivastigmine transdermal patch is a drug used to treat Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease dementia. It has significant efficacy, but it also has certain adverse reactions. It is very important for patients and medical staff to understand these adverse reactions and precautions when using the drug. One of the most common adverse reactions of rivastigmine transdermal patch is gastrointestinal problems.
What are the adverse reactions of rivastigmine transdermal patch?
Any drug has certain adverse reactions. Understanding the adverse reactions of rivastigmine transdermal patch can help prevent and deal with them in time, ensuring the safety of treatment and the health of patients.
Gastrointestinal problems
One of the most common adverse reactions of rivastigmine transdermal patch is gastrointestinal problems. Patients may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia. These symptoms are usually more obvious in the early stages of treatment, and these gastrointestinal symptoms may gradually alleviate as the body gradually adapts to the drug. In order to reduce stomach discomfort, it is recommended that patients eat before taking the drug or take it at the same time as the drug.
Skin reactions
Patients using rivastigmine transdermal patch may also experience skin reactions at the application site, such as erythema and edema. These reactions are usually limited to the area covered by the patch, but if the reaction exceeds the size of the patch, or the local reaction is strong and does not improve within 48 hours, allergic contact dermatitis should be suspected.
Precautions for the use of rivastigmine transdermal patches
Understanding the precautions for use can ensure a safer and more effective treatment process and avoid unnecessary risks and complications.
Dosage and frequency of use
The dose and frequency of rivastigmine transdermal patches should be adjusted according to the patient's specific situation. The initial dose is usually 4.6 mg/24 hours, and then the dose is gradually increased according to the patient's tolerance and treatment effect. If the administration is interrupted for 3 days or less, the same or lower strength rivastigmine transdermal patch can be used again; if the administration is interrupted for more than 3 days, it should be restarted at a dose of 4.6 mg/24 hours and gradually increased to the required dose.
Avoid medication errors
Failure to remove the old patch or using multiple patches at the same time may result in serious adverse reactions. Always make sure that the old patch has been completely removed each time the patch is changed. Patients should strictly follow the doctor's instructions to use the drug and avoid adjusting the dosage or frequency of medication on their own.
Patients and medical staff should pay close attention to the patient's physical response and adjust the treatment plan in time to reduce the occurrence of adverse reactions and improve the effectiveness of treatment.
