Peer Reviewed
Drug update
Rivastigmine transdermal patch for mild to moderately severe Alzheimer’s disease
Abstract
Rivastigmine transdermal formulation (Exelon Patch) demonstrates a significantly lower incidence of gastrointestinal side effects in trials to date and may help with compliance to medication in certain groups of patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
Key Points
Alzheimer’s disease accounts for approximately 70% of dementias worldwide. In Australia, the percentage of the population with dementia increased to 1% in 2005. Unfortunately there is currently no cure for dementia, but pharmacological treatment for Alzheimer’s disease has been available for over 10 years Although the effect of treatment is only mild on average, some patients respond more clearly than others. Treatment can make a significant difference for many people with dementia as well as their carers.
Purchase the PDF version of this article
Already a subscriber? Login here.