Inappropriate use of and medication errors associated with Exelon® Patch (rivastigmine transdermal patch)

Novartis would like to remind healthcare professionals of the importance of the proper use and application of Exelon® Patch (rivastigmine transdermal patch). Medication errors and inappropriate use of Exelon® patch have been reported, some of these resulting in rivastigmine overdose. Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, hypertension, and hallucinations. The most frequent reported causes are lack of patch removal and application of more than one patch at the same time. Serious medical outcomes, including death, may occur if the medication errors and misuse are not corrected in a timely manner and properly managed. In case of overdose, all Exelon® patches should be immediately removed. Healthcare professionals are advised to refer to the product information for the use of the product and to educate patients/ caregivers on the proper use of Exelon® Patch prior to initiating therapy. A copy of the updated product information will be made available on HSA website.