Open AccessDrug Profile: Transdermal Rivastigmine Patch in the Treatment of Alzheimer Disease
Author(s) -
Emre Murat,
Bernabei Roberto,
Blesa Rafael,
Bullock Roger,
Cunha Luis,
Daniëls Hugo,
Dziadulewicz Edward,
Förstl Hans,
Frölich Lutz,
Gabryelewicz Tomasz,
Levin Oleg,
Lindesay James,
MartínezLage Pablo,
Monsch Andreas,
Tsolaki Magda,
Van Laar Teus
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
cns neuroscience and therapeutics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.403
H-Index - 69
eISSN - 1755-5949
pISSN - 1755-5930
DOI - 10.1111/j.1755-5949.2010.00141.x
Subject(s) - rivastigmine , transdermal patch , transdermal , medicine , drug , pharmacokinetics , disease , pharmacology , cholinesterase , compliance (psychology) , donepezil , intensive care medicine , anesthesia , dementia , psychology , social psychology
Cholinesterase inhibitors constitute one of the mainstays of treatment of Alzheimer disease (AD). Gastrointestinal side effects, difficulty accessing therapeutic doses and poor patient compliance have been identified as barriers to effective treatment with these substances. The rivastigmine transdermal patch provides continuous delivery of drug through the skin into the bloodstream, avoiding the fluctuations in plasma concentration associated with oral administration. This pharmacokinetic profile is associated with reduced side effects, resulting in easier access to expected target doses. These benefits, along with other practical advantages of the transdermal patch, may contribute to enhanced patient compliance. Here, we present a review of the current literature on rivastigmine patch, and offer advice based on our own collective clinical experience. Rivastigmine patch provides an efficient option for managing patients with AD, to be considered among the first line therapies for the disease.