...Taken from News Release...
Skin Patch Approved for Treatment of Mild to Moderate Alzheimer’s
Monday, July 30, 2007
A skin patch that delivers small, continuous doses
of the Alzheimer’s drug Exelon throughout the day
was approved for sale in the United States earlier
this month. It is expected to be available in pharmacies
in the coming weeks.
The “Exelon Patch” contains the same medication,
rivastigmine, that is has been available in capsule form
since 2000 to treat mild to moderate Alzheimer’s.
The medication is also available in a liquid form.
The skin patch is replaced once a day and worn on the
back, chest, or upper arm.
Various medications have been available as skin patches,
which allow small and continuous doses of the drug to be
absorbed through the skin, but this is the first such
skin patch to be available for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
According to the drug’s maker, Novartis Pharmaceuticals,
the skin patch may be preferred by caregivers because it
may be easier to apply than taking a pill.
“The patch provides a visual reassurance for the caregiver
that the patient is receiving their medication,” they note.
Because it delivers a small and steady dose, it may also be
less likely to produce upset stomach, nausea and vomiting
than oral forms of the drug, the drug-makers say.
The Food and Drug Administration also approved the use
of Exelon Patch in treating patients with mild to moderate
dementia due to Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease
is a chronic and progressive neurological condition that
affects some 1.5 million people in the United States.
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Yes, this is wonderful news for caregivers! Easier on them
and on the patient...
For more information on Alzheimer's...
http://www.clickaudit.com/goto/?66427
For information from noted elder care experts...
http://www.clickaudit.com/goto/?64435
Warmest thoughts,
~Karen~
