Rivastigmine belongs to a class of medications called central nervous system agents inhibiting an enzyme acetylcholinesterase to slow down the breakdown of a neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Rivastigmine is used for treating dementia associated with Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
Rivastigmine is available as oral tablets, capsules and transdermal patches in Hong Kong. They should not be broken, crushed or chewed. The oral ones are taken with meals. The capsules should be swallowed as a whole.
Alzheimer’s disease
Adult and elderly
Oral capsules or tablets: The initial dose is 1.5 mg twice daily and increases by 1.5 mg at least after two weeks. The usual dose is 3-6 mg twice daily. Start again from 1.5 mg twice daily if the treatment is interrupted for several days.
Transdermal patches: The initial dose is 4.6 mg daily and increases to 9.5 mg at least after 4 weeks, then 13.3 mg at least after 6 months. Start again from 4.6 mg daily if the treatment is interrupted for several days.
Dementia associated with Parkinson’s disease
Adult and elderly
Oral capsules or tablets: The initial dose is 1.5 mg twice daily and increases by 1.5 mg at least after two weeks. The usual dose is 3-6 mg twice daily. Start again from 1.5 mg twice daily if the treatment is interrupted for several days.
Transdermal patches: The initial dose is 4.6 mg daily and increases to 9.5 mg at least after 4 weeks, then 13.3 mg if necessary. Start again from 4.6 mg daily if the treatment is interrupted for several days.
Common dosing schedule:
Oral Rivastigmine is usually taken twice daily with meals, preferably breakfast and dinner.
Transdermal Rivastigmine patches are applied every day, preferably after shower.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Rivastigmine may interact with:
Rivastigmine may interact with many other medications. Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Rivastigmine is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Rivastigmine in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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