Treatments
Rivastigmine (Exelon)
Rivastigmine works similarly to donepezil but delivered through a daily skin patch. Many families prefer the patch when swallowing pills becomes harder.
Updated 2026-02-20
Written and clinically reviewed by Ashlee Skabla Velez, APRN, ACNPC-AG
Dementia care and caregiver-support specialist
Need help applying this to your situation?
How it works
Rivastigmine boosts acetylcholine in the brain, like donepezil. Approved for mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's and Parkinson's dementia. The patch delivers steady drug levels with fewer GI side effects than pills.
Using the patch correctly
- Apply once daily to clean, dry, hairless skin (upper back, chest, or upper arm).
- Rotate the site daily — don't reapply to the same spot for 14 days.
- Wash hands after application — skin reactions are common otherwise.
- Don't cut the patch.
- Dispose of used patches folded sticky-side together so no one (or no pet) gets exposed.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the patch better than the pill?
- For many patients yes — fewer nausea/diarrhea complaints. Same overall benefit.
- What if it falls off?
- Replace immediately; don't double up. Set a daily phone alarm to check it.
Every dementia journey is different.
Memory Lane Care helps you understand what applies to your loved one, what to expect next, and which resources fit your family's situation.
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Memory Lane connects every part of dementia care. Here's how this topic threads into the rest.
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