Rivastigmine: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
Exelon® (rivastigmine tartrate) is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate dementia of the Alzheimer's type.
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label fead084a…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
| Adverse reaction (as reported in labeling) | Reported frequency* |
|---|---|
| Diarrhea | 19% |
| Headache | 17% |
| Abdominal pain | 13% |
| Accidental trauma | 10% |
| Fatigue | 9% |
| Dyspepsia | 9% |
| Insomnia | 9% |
| Nausea | 8% |
| Confusion | 8% |
| Urinary tract infection | 7% |
| Asthenia | 6% |
| Depression | 6% |
| Vomiting | 5% |
| Malaise | 5% |
| Somnolence | 5% |
| Constipation | 5% |
| Anxiety | 5% |
| Sweating increased | 4% |
| Tremor | 4% |
| Flatulence | 4% |
*Highest percentage reported for the active moiety across placebo-controlled trial tables in current FDA labeling. Values reflect trial reporting, not your individual risk.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
Exelon® (rivastigmine tartrate) is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate dementia of the Alzheimer's type. Exelon® (rivastigmine tartrate) is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate dementia associated with Parkinson’s disease. The dementia of Parkinson’s disease is purportedly characterized by impairments in executive function, memory retrieval, and attention in patients with an established diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. The diagnosis of the dementia of Parkinson’s disease, however, can reliably be made in patients in whom a progressive dementia syndrome occurs (without the necessity to document the specific deficits described above) at least 2 years after a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease has been made, and in whom other causes of dementia have been ruled out (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Clinical Trial Data).
Conditions associated with Rivastigmine in labeling
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rivastigmine used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Rivastigmine?
The table above shows adverse reactions and the highest frequencies reported in placebo-controlled trials summarized in current FDA labeling for Rivastigmine. Individual risk varies.
Does Rivastigmine require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Rivastigmine.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.