Medication
Information about medications for dementia in general can be found on the Alzheimer’s Society website at https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/site/scripts/documents_info.php?documentID=147.
Information about specific medications can be found below (please click on the relevant tabs).
Donepezil (pron. don-eppy-zil)
What is donepezil used for?
Donepezil (also known by its trade name Aricept®) is usually used to help treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease (dementia). It is known as an anticholinesterase. Donepezil is available as plain tablets and melt-inthe-mouth tablets.
What is the usual dose of donepezil?
The usual dose of donepezil is 5-10mg a day at breakfast.
How should I take donepezil?
Swallow the tablets with at least half a glass of water whilst sitting or standing. This is to make sure that they reach the stomach and do not stick in your throat. For the melt-in-the-mouth tablets, just put it on your
tongue and it will dissolve quickly.
When should I take donepezil?
Take your donepezil as directed on the medicine label. It is usually once a day at breakfast. Taking it with
breakfast may help you to remember as there is no problem about taking donepezil with or after food.
What are the alternatives to donepezil?
There are other medicines (e.g. galantamine, rivastigmine and memantine) and treatments for Alzheimer’s
Disease. See our “Handy chart” to help you compare the main medicines, how they work and their side
effects.
How long will donepezil take to work?
Donepezil usually starts to work in a couple of weeks or so.
How long will I need to keep taking donepezil for?
You will probably need to take it for the rest of your life.
Is donepezil addictive?
Donepezil is not addictive.
Can I stop taking donepezil suddenly?
It is unwise to stop taking it suddenly, even if you feel better. Your symptoms can return if treatment is
stopped too early. Often these will be worse than before you started taking it. This may occur some weeks or
even months after donepezil has been stopped. When the time comes, you should stop donepezil by a gradual
reduction in the dose over several weeks. You should discuss this fully with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
What should I do if I forget to take a dose of donepezil?
Start again as soon as you remember if within about 12 hours. After this just take the next dose as normal. Do
not try to catch up by taking two doses at once as you may get more side-effects. There are some special
packs, boxes and devices that can be used to help you remember.
Will donepezil affect my other medication?
Donepezil has a few interactions with other medicines.
- The effects of donepezil can sometimes be increased by ketoconazole (an antifungal) or some SSRIs (e.g. paroxetine)
- The effect of donepezil can be decreased by anticholinergics (e.g. procyclidine)
- Donepezil can increase the effect of suxamethonium (a muscle relaxant) or beta-blockers (e.g. propranolol, atenolol; used to treat fast heart rate and high blood pressure)
- There are no problems with "The Contraceptive Pill" and donepezil.
Not all of these interactions happen in everyone. Some of these medicines can still be used together but you will need to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. There are many other possible drug interactions.
Can I drink alcohol while I am taking donepezil?
If you drink alcohol while taking donepezil it may make you feel a little more sleepy. You should seek advice if you need to drive or operate machinery
What sort of side-effects might occur if I am taking donepezil?
The table below will show you some of the main side effects you might get from donepezil.
| Side Effect | What happens | What to do about it |
| COMMON (less than about 1 in 10 people might get these) | ||
| Headache |
When your head is painful and pounding. | Ask your pharmacist if it is safe to take paracetamol with any other medicines you are taking. |
| Loss of appetite |
Not feeling hungry. You may lose weight. | If this is a problem, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice. |
| Dizziness | Feeling light-headed and faint. | Don't stand up too quickly. Try and lie or sit down if you feel it coming on. A change in dose may help. Discuss this with your doctor |
| Nausea and vomiting |
Nausea and vomiting | Take the dose with or after food. If it is bad, contact your doctor. It may be possible to adjust your dose. |
| Diarrhoea |
Going to the toilet more than usual..Passing loose, watery stools. |
Drink plenty of water. Get advice from your pharmacist. If it lasts for more than a day, contact your doctor. |
| Sleep disturbances |
You can’t sleep very well and may have nightmares | If you feel like this for more than a week after starting donepezil, tell your doctor. |
| UNCOMMON (less than about 1 in 100 people might get these) | ||
| Urinary retention |
Not passing much urine | Contact your doctor now |
| RARE (less than about 1 in 1000 people might get these) | ||
| Seizures | Having a fit or convulson | Stop taking donepezil and contact your doctor immediately. |
Do not be worried by this list of side effects. Some people get no side effects at all and others may get some effects that are not listed in this table. If you think you might have a side effect to your medicine, you should ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. If you want to know more, go to our website for links to other websites with more information.
Will I need a blood test if I am taking donepezil?
You should not need a blood test while you are taking donepezil.
Can I drive while I am taking donepezil?
You may feel a bit sleepy at first when taking donepezil. Until this wears off, or you know how donepezil affects you, do not drive or operate machinery. You should be careful as it may slow down your reaction times.
Galantamine (pron. gal-anne-ta-mean)
What is galantamine used for?
Galantamine (also known by its trade name Reminyl®) is usually used to help treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease (dementia). It is known as an anticholinesterase. Galantamine is available as tablets, XL
capsules and syrup.
What is the usual dose of galantamine?
The usual dose of galantamine is around 24mg a day. The tablets should be taken twice a day. The XL
capsules should be taken once a day.
How should I take galantamine?
Swallow the tablets with at least half a glass of water whilst sitting or standing. This is to make sure that they
reach the stomach and do not stick in your throat. For the liquid, use a medicine spoon, dropper or oral
syringe. Use it carefully to make sure you measure the correct amount.
When should I take galantamine?
Take your galantamine as directed on the medicine label. Taking it at mealtimes may make it easier for you to
remember as there is no problem about taking galantamine with or after food. If the label says to take it once
a day this is usually best in the morning.
What are the alternatives to galantamine?
There are some other medicines (e.g. donepezil, rivastigmine and memantine), therapies and treatments for
Alzheimer’s Disease. See our “Handy chart” to help you compare the medicines, how they work and their side
effects.
How long will galantamine take to work?
Galantamine usually starts to work in a couple of weeks or so. Please look at one of the “Handy charts” for
more help and advice on how long you might need to take it for before it works.
How long will I need to keep taking galantamine for?
You will probably need to take it for the rest of your life. Please look one of the “Handy charts” for more help
and advice on how long you might need to take it for.
Can I stop taking galantamine suddenly?
Galantamine is not addictive as such but it is unwise to stop taking it suddenly, even if you feel better. Your
symptoms can return if treatment is stopped too early. Often these will be worse than before you started
taking it. This may occur some weeks or even months after galantamine has been stopped. When the time
comes, you should stop your galantamine by a gradual reduction in the dose over several weeks. You should
discuss this fully with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
What should I do if I forget to take galantamine?
If you are taking the XL capsules, start again as soon as you remember if within about 12 hours. If you are taking the tablets or syrup, start again as soon as you remember if within about 4-6 hours. After this just take the next dose as normal. Do not try to catch up by taking two doses at once as you may get more side-effects. There are some special packs, boxes and devices that can be used to help you remember.
Will galantamine affect my other medication?
Galantamine has a few interactions with other medicines.
- The effects of galantamine can sometimes be increased by ketoconazole (an antifungal) or some SSRIs (e.g. paroxetine)
- The effect of galantamine can be decreased by anticholinergics (e.g. procyclidine)
- Galantamine can increase the effect of suxamethonium (a muscle relaxant) or beta-blockers (e.g. propranolol, atenolol; used to treat fast heart rate and high blood pressure)
- There are no problems with "The Contraceptive Pill" and galantamine.
Not all of these interactions happen in everyone. Some of these medicines can still be used together but you will need to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. There are many other possible drug interactions.
Can I drink alcohol while I am taking galantamine?
If you drink alcohol while taking galantamine it may make you feel a little more sleepy. You should seek advice if you need to drive or operate machinery.
What sort of side-effects might occur if I am taking galantamine?
The table below will show you some of the main side effects you might get from galantamine.
| Side Effect | What happens | What to do about it |
| COMMON (less than about 1 in 10 people might get these) | ||
| Headache |
When your head is painful and pounding. | Ask your pharmacist if it is safe to take paracetamol with any other medicines you are taking. |
| Loss of appetite |
Not feeling hungry. You may lose weight. | If this is a problem, contact your doctor or pharmacist foradvice. |
| Dizziness | Feeling light-headed and faint. | Don't stand up too quickly. Try and lie or sit down if you feel it coming on. A change in dose may help. Discuss this with your doctor |
| Nausea and vomiting |
Nausea and vomiting | Take the dose with or after food. If it is bad, contact your doctor. It may be possible to adjust your dose. |
| Diarrhoea |
Going to the toilet more than usual..Passing loose, watery stools. |
Drink plenty of water. Get advice from your pharmacist. If it lasts for more than a day, contact your doctor. |
| Sleep disturbances |
You can’t sleep very well and may have nightmares | If you feel like this for more than a week after starting donepezil, tell your doctor. |
| UNCOMMON (less than about 1 in 100 people might get these) | ||
| Urinary retention |
Not passing much urine | Contact your doctor now |
| RARE (less than about 1 in 1000 people might get these) | ||
| Seizures | Having a fit or convulson | Stop taking donepezil and contact your doctor immediately. |
Do not be worried by this list of side effects. Some people get no side effects at all and others may get some effects that are not listed in this table. If you think you might have a side effect to your medicine, you should ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. If you want to know more, go to our website for links to other websites with more information.
Will I need a blood test if I am taking galantamine?
You should not need a blood test while you are taking galantamine.
Can I drive while I am taking galantamine?
You may feel a bit sleepy at first when taking galantamine. Until this wears off, or you know how galantamine affects you, do not drive or operate machinery. You should be careful as it may slow down your reaction times.
Memantine (pron. mem-anne-teen)
What is memantine used for?
Memantine (also known by its trade name Ebixa®) is usually used to help treat the symptoms of moderate to
severe Alzheimer’s Disease (dementia). It is available as tablets and an oral solution (liquid).
What is the usual dose of memantine?
The starting dose is 5mg each day. This is increased slowly over 4 weeks to the usual standard dose of 20mg
each day, although some people only need 10mg a day. This can be taken as one 20mg dose or two 10mg
doses.
How should I take memantine?
Swallow the tablets with at least half a glass of water whilst sitting or standing. This is to make sure that they
reach the stomach and do not stick in your throat. If you have the liquid, use the pump device on the bottle.
Each pump gives 5mg of memantine, so you need one pump or activation to get 5mg, two pumps for 10mg,
three pumps for 15mg, and four pumps to get each 20mg dose.
When should I take memantine?
Take your memantine as directed on the medicine label. It is usually once a day. This is usually best at
bedtime as it may make you drowsy at first, although it can be taken any time of the day, but should be taken
at the same time of each day.
What are the alternatives to memantine?
There are other medicines (e.g. anticholinesterases and some others), therapies and treatments to help
manage the symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease. See our “Handy charts” to help you compare the medicines,
how they work and their side effects.
How long will memantine take to work?
Memantine should start to work in a couple of weeks or so. Please look at one of the “Handy charts” for more
help and more advice on how long you might need to take it for before it works.
How long will I need to keep taking memantine for?
Possibly for the rest of your life. Please look one of the “Handy charts” for more help and advice on how long
you might need to take it for.
Is memantine addictive?
Memantine is not addictive as such.
Can I stop taking memantine suddenly?
You can stop taking memantine suddenly. There are no know problems. However, the symptoms can return if
treatment is stopped too early. You should discuss this fully with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
What should I do if I forget to take memantine?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it is within about 10 hours of your next dose. If you
remember after this just take the next dose as normal. Do not try to catch up by taking two doses at once as
you may get more side-effects. If you have problems remembering doses (as very many people do) ask your
pharmacist, doctor or nurse about this. There are some special packs, boxes and devices that can be used to
help people remember.
Will memantine affect my other medication?
Memantine has a few interactions with other medicines:
- Memantine should not usually be taken with amantadine or ketamine, and care is needed if taken withbaclofen or dantrolene
- Memantine can sometimes decrease the effect of some antipsychotics or phenobarbital
- Memantine can increase the effect of anticholinergics (e.g. procyclidine) or levodopa (e.g. Sinemet®,Madopar®) for Parkinson’s Disease
- There are no problems with "The Contraceptive Pill" and memantine.
Not all of these interactions happen in everyone. Some of these medicines can still be used together but you will need to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. There are many other possible drug interactions.
Can I drink alcohol while I am taking memantine?
If you drink alcohol while taking memantine it may make you feel more sleepy.
What sort of side-effects might occur if I am taking memantine?
The table below will show you some of the main side effects you might get from memantine.
| Side Effect | What happens | What to do about it |
| COMMON (less than about 1 in 10 people might get these) | ||
| Headache |
When your head is painful and pounding. | Ask your pharmacist if it is safe to take paracetamol with any other medicines you are taking. |
| Tiredness | Feeling very tired | If it is bad, contact your doctor. It may be possible to adjust the dose. |
| Confusion | Your mind is mixed up more than usual | Tell your doctor. It may be possible to alter the dose. |
| Dizziness | Feeling light-headed and faint. | Don't stand up too quickly. Try and lie or sit down if you feel it coming on. A change in dose may help. Discuss this with your doctor |
| Hallucinations | Seeing or hearing things that are not there | Tell your doctor. It may be possible to alter the dose or change your medication. |
| UNCOMMON (less than about 1 in 100 people might get these) | ||
| Cystitis |
Feeling |
Tell your doctor, who will be able to treat the cystitis and adjust your medication if it continues for a long time |
| Nausea and vomiting | Feeling sick and being sick | If it is bad, contact your doctor. It may be possible to adjust the dose |
| Anxiety | Feeling more anxious, nervous or excitable | If this does not wear off, mention it to your doctor |
| Increased libido | Sex drive increases | Tell your doctor. If it is a problem, your medication may be adjusted. |
Do not be worried by this list of side effects. Some people get no side effects at all and others may get some effects that
are not listed in this table. If you think you might have a side effect to your medicine, you should ask your doctor, nurse
or pharmacist. If you want to know more, go to our website for links to other websites with more information.
Will I need a blood test if I am taking memantine?
You should not need any blood tests while you are taking memantine.
Can I drive while I am taking memantine?
You may feel a bit sleepy at first when taking memantine. You should be careful as it may slow down your reaction times. Until this wears off, or you know how memantine affects you, do not drive or operate machinery.
Rivastigmine transdermal patches (pron. river-stig-mean)
What are rivastigmine patches used for?
Rivastigmine (also known by its trade name Exelon®) is usually used to help treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease (dementia). It is known as an anticholinesterase. Exelon® patches release rivastigmine onto the skin where the body absorbs it. This means that you don’t need to take a capsule every day. You also get less side effects because the amount in your body is very steady, and less stomach side effects as the rivastigmine doesn’t go anywhere near the stomach. Rivastigmine is also available as capsules and a liquid.
What is the usual dose of rivastigmine patches?
The dose normally starts at one 4.6mg patch every day, going up to a 9.5mg patch every day after a week or so. Apply each patch at the same time every day.
Where should I apply a rivastigmine patch?
One patch should be applied each day to:
- left upper arm or right upper arm
- eft upper chest or right upper chest (but avoid the breast area)
- left upper back or right upper back
- left lower back or right lower back
Do not apply a new patch to exactly the same place again for at least 14 days
How should I apply a new rivastigmine patch?
If you follow these instructions carefully, it will reduce the chances of getting a skin rash.
- Make sure the skin area is clean dry, not hairy, with no rash, cuts, or any powder, creams, ointments or moisturisers. Otherwise the patch won’t stay stuck on.
- Take the old one off. Pull gently on one side of the patch and remove the whole patch from the skin.
- Fold it in half so the sticky side sticks to itself and put it in the bin.
- Get the new one out by using scissors to cut along the dotted line on the packet
- Peel off one of the liners from the sticky side
- Stick that to the skin, and then pull off the other liner
- Now press the patch down firmly, especially round the edges.
- Try to do this at the same time every day
Some dos and don’ts
- Always put a new patch in a different place to the last one
- Only wear one Exelon patch at a time, so don’t forget to take the old one off before adding a new one.
- If you do end up with two, take the older one off and leave the newer one in place.
- Replace the patch with a new one after 24 hours.
- If you have not applied a patch for several days, talk to your doctor before starting again. You might get more side effects if you go for the full dose after a break.
- Don’t let the patch get too hot for a long time or it might release more rivastigmine
- If a patch falls off, put a new one on for the rest of the day, then replace it at the usual time the next day.
- Avoid places where the patch can be rubbed off by tight clothing.
What should I do if I forget to apply a rivastigmine patch?
If you have not applied a patch for several days, do not apply the next one before you have talked to your doctor. Do not try to catch up by adding an extra patch, as you will get more side
effects.
How long will rivastigmine take to work?
Rivastigmine usually starts to work in a couple of weeks or so. Please look at one of the “Handy charts” for more help and advice on how long you might need to take it for before it works.
What sort of side-effects might occur if I am having rivastigmine patches?
| Side Effect | What happens | What to do about it |
| COMMON (less than about 1 in 10 people might get these) | ||
| Irritant dermatitis |
A rash just where the patch has been (usually has a perfect outline of the patch) |
Follow the instructions very carefully. Wash the skin gently first and dab dry with a cloth each time. Take it off very gently. Do not shave or use alcohol rubs on the skin – this can damage the top layer of skin. Put some moisturisers on the skin after the patch has been removed. |
| Allergic dermatitis |
A skin rash spreading out from where the patch has been | Use moisturising creams and lotions for the skin rash. This helps any dryness, scales or cracks. Antihistamines (such as cetirizine) and calamine lotion can help the itchiness. If the rash is severe, some steroid creams or ointments can be used, but you must see your doctor before using them. |
| Headache |
When your head is painful and pounding. | Ask your pharmacist if it is safe to take paracetamol with any other medicines you are taking. |
| Loss of appetite |
Not feeling hungry. You may lose weight. | If this is a problem, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice. |
| Dizziness | Feeling light-headed and faint. | Don't stand up too quickly. Try and lie or sit down if you feel it coming on. A change in dose may help. Discuss this with your doctor |
| Nausea and vomiting |
Nausea and vomiting | Take the dose with or after food. If it is bad, contact your doctor. It may be possible to adjust your dose. |
| Diarrhoea |
Going to the toilet more than usual..Passing loose, watery stools. |
Drink plenty of water. Get advice from your pharmacist. If it lasts for more than a day, contact your doctor. |
| Sleep disturbances |
You can’t sleep very well and may have nightmares | If you feel like this for more than a week after starting Rivastigmine, tell your doctor. |
| UNCOMMON (less than about 1 in 100 people might get these) | ||
| Urinary retention |
Not passing much urine | Contact your doctor now |
| RARE (less than about 1 in 1000 people might get these) | ||
| Seizures | Having a fit or convulson | Stop taking Rivastigmine (just take the patch off) and contact your doctor immediately. |
Do not be worried by this list of side effects. Some people get no side effects at all and others may get some effects
that are not listed in this table. If you think you might have a side effect to your medicine, you should ask your doctor,
nurse or pharmacist. If you want to know more, go to our website for links to other websites with more information.
What are the alternatives to rivastigmine?
There are many other medicines (e.g. donepezil, galantamine and memantine), therapies and treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease, but rivastigmine is the only one available as patches. You can also see our “Handy chart” to help you compare the medicines, how they work and their side effects.
Is rivastigmine addictive and can I stop rivastigmine suddenly?
It is unwise to stop using it suddenly. Your symptoms can return if treatment is stopped too early. Often these will be worse than before you started taking it. This may occur some weeks or even months after rivastigmine has been stopped. When the time comes, you should stop your rivastigmine by a gradual reduction in the dose over several weeks. You should discuss this fully with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
Will rivastigmine affect my other medication?
Rivastigmine has a few interactions with other medicines.
- The effects of rivastigmine can be increased by ketoconazole (an antifungal) or some SSRIs (e.g. paroxetine)
- The effect of rivastigmine can be decreased by anticholinergics (e.g. procyclidine)
- Rivastigmine can increase the effect of suxamethonium (a muscle relaxant) or beta-blockers (e.g. propranolol, atenolol; used to treat fast heart rate and high blood pressure)
Not all of these interactions happen in everyone. Some of these medicines can still be used together but you will need to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. There are many other possible drug interactions.
Can I drive while I am having rivastigmine?
You may feel a bit sleepy at first when taking rivastigmine. You should be careful as it may slow down your reaction times. Until this wears off, or you know how rivastigmine affects you, do not drive or operate machinery.
Rivastigmine (pron. river-stig-mean)
What is rivastigmine used for?
Rivastigmine (also known by its trade name Exelon® ) is usually used to help treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease (dementia). It is known as an anticholinesterase. Rivastigmine is available as capsules, liquid and skin patches.
What is the usual dose of rivastigmine?
The usual dose of rivastigmine capsules is 6-12mg a day. The patches normally start at 4.6mg/24hrs, going up to 9.5mg/24hrs.
How should I take rivastigmine?
Swallow the capsules with at least half a glass of water whilst sitting or standing. This is to make sure that they reach the stomach and do not stick in your throat. For the liquid, use a medicine spoon, dropper or oral syringe. Use it carefully to make sure you measure the correct amount. You must follow the instructions for the patches carefully (there is a separate leaflet for Exelon patches).
When should I take rivastigmine?
Take your rivastigmine as directed on the medicine label. Taking it at mealtimes may make it easier for you to remember as there is no problem about taking rivastigmine with or after food. If the instructions say to take it once a day this is usually best in the morning.
What are the alternatives to rivastigmine?
There are some other medicines (e.g. donepezil, galantamine and memantine), therapies and treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease. See our “Handy chart” to help you compare the medicines, how they work and their side effects.
How long will rivastigmine take to work?
Rivastigmine usually starts to work in a couple of weeks or so. Please look at one of the “Handy charts” for more help and advice on how long you might need to take it for before it works.
How long will I need to keep taking rivastigmine for?
You may need to take it for the rest of your life. Please look one of the “Handy charts” for more help and advice on how long you might need to take it for.
Is rivastigmine addictive?
Rivastigmine is not addictive as such.
Can I stop taking rivastigmine suddenly?
It is unwise to stop taking it suddenly, even if you feel better. Your symptoms can return if treatment is stopped too early. Often these will be worse than before you started taking it. This may occur some weeks or even months after rivastigmine has been stopped. When the time comes, you should stop your rivastigmine by a gradual reduction in the dose over several weeks. You should discuss this fully with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
What should I do if I forget to take a dose of rivastigmine?
Start again as soon as you remember if within about 12 hours. After this just take the next dose as normal. Do not try to catch up by taking two doses at once as you may get more side-effects. There are some special packs, boxes and devices that can be used to help you remember.
Will rivastigmine affect my other medication?
Rivastigmine has a few interactions with other medicines.
- The effects of rivastigmine can sometimes be increased by ketoconazole (an antifungal) or some SSRIs (e.g. paroxetine)
- The effect of rivastigmine can be decreased by anticholinergics (e.g. procyclidine)
- There are no problems with "The Contraceptive Pill" and rivastigmine.
- Rivastigmine can increase the effect of suxamethonium (a muscle relaxant) or beta-blockers (e.g.
propranolol, atenolol; used to treat fast heart rate and high blood pressure)
Not all of these interactions happen in everyone. Some of these medicines can still be used together but you will need to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. There are many other possible drug interactions.
Can I drink alcohol while I am taking rivastigmine?
If you drink alcohol while taking rivastigmine it may make you feel a little more sleepy. You should seek advice if you need to drive or operate machinery.
What sort of side-effects might occur if I am taking rivastigmine?
The table below will show you some of the main side effects you might get from rivastigmine.
| Side Effect | What happens | What to do about it |
| COMMON (less than about 1 in 10 people might get these) | ||
| Headache |
When your head is painful and pounding. | Ask your pharmacist if it is safe to take paracetamol with any other medicines you are taking. |
| Loss of appetite |
Not feeling hungry. You may lose weight. | If this is a problem, contact your doctor or pharmacist foradvice. |
| Dizziness | Feeling light-headed and faint. | Don't stand up too quickly. Try and lie or sit down if you feel it coming on. A change in dose may help. Discuss this with your doctor |
| Nausea and vomiting |
Nausea and vomiting | Take the dose with or after food. If it is bad, contact your doctor. It may be possible to adjust your dose. |
| Diarrhoea |
Going to the toilet more than usual..Passing loose, watery stools. |
Drink plenty of water. Get advice from your pharmacist. If it lasts for more than a day, contact your doctor. |
| Sleep disturbances |
You can’t sleep very well and may have nightmares | If you feel like this for more than a week after starting rivastigmine, tell your doctor. |
| UNCOMMON (less than about 1 in 100 people might get these) | ||
| Urinary retention |
Not passing much urine | Contact your doctor now |
| RARE (less than about 1 in 1000 people might get these) | ||
| Seizures | Having a fit or convulson | Stop taking rivastigmine and contact your doctor immediately. |
Do not be worried by this list of side effects. Some people get no side effects at all and others may get some effects that are not listed in this table. If you think you might have a side effect to your medicine, you should ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. If you want to know more, go to our website for links to other websites with more information.
Will I need a blood test if I am taking rivastigmine?
You should not need a blood test while you are taking rivastigmine.
Can I drive while I am taking rivastigmine?
You may feel a bit sleepy at first when taking rivastigmine. Until this wears off, or you know how rivastigmine affects you, do not drive or operate machinery. You should be careful as it may slow down your reaction times.