Rivastigmine improves mental function (such as memory and thinking) by increasing the amount of a certain natural substance in the brain.
My husband is using the Rivastigmine patch. For 5 months he was taking 4.6, the lowest dosage. For 7 months he took 9.5 (mid dose). Now for the last 2 and a half weeks he’s on the highest dosage of 13.3.
With each increase in dosage he improves from not being able to speak or dress himself to being able to have a thoughtful meaningful conversation and he can even dress himself again. It’s like a miracle drug! Now that he’s on the highest dosage available and I’m witnessing the improvements, I often wonder what will happen when his body builds up a tolerance again. I’m hoping for another good 7 months, or maybe even 9. I know that I am supposed to live in the moment and I try to practice that everyday. I’m wondering if others have been through this and what happens after 13.3 no longer works? Do you know if they try other meds or does the patient go back to infancy stage? I also know that no two people are alike and what works for one might not work for someone else. I’m just looking for other people’s experiences. Anyone?
Thanks,
❤️ SewBears
Hi SewBears,
I have no advice on Rivastigmine; Rod tried Donepizil and Quetiapine, neither of which had any beneficial effect, but as you said, different drugs work for different people. The great thing is that your hubby is getting noticeable results from the raised dosage of Riva, so time to make the most of and enjoy the current situation and long may it last. Don’t think about the ‘what if’s’ - just get on with enjoying ‘the now’, which I know you always try to do anyway.
Love Hils
x
I wonder if I should suggest trying this for Mom to our Neuro? Hmmm - We also had Leavodopa right before diagnosis and it didn’t do anything for Mom. Nothing else has been offered or even suggested to us. 😞
Hello Kim
No harm in having the conversation with your mom’s neurologist, especially around managing any new symptoms, just to check out if there is something out there that may make her life easier along with yours. Even a small amount of respite of symptoms is a bonus but I suppose the prescribing doctor always has to weigh up the pros and cons.
Enjoy your day.
Love Hils
X
Well then, I think I will ask. Xo Kim