Exelon

The chance of severe vomiting increases when Exelon is given after an interruption of several days. Do not start giving the drug again without first checking with the doctor. Dosage may need to be reduced to the lowest starting level.

Exelon may aggravate asthma and other breathing problems and can increase the risk of seizures. Other drugs of its type are also known to increase the chance of ulcers, stomach bleeding, and urinary obstruction, although these problems have not been noted with Exelon. Drugs in this category can also slow the heartbeat, possibly causing fainting in people who have a heart condition. Contact your doctor if any of these problems occur.

Exelon has not been tested in children.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Exelon

If Exelon is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Exelon with the following:

• Bethanechol
• Drugs that control spasms, such as dicyclomine and hyoscyamine.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Exelon is not intended for women of child-bearing age, and its effects during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not been studied.

Recommended dosage for Exelon

ADULTS

The usual starting dose is 1.5 milligrams 2 times a day for at least 2 weeks. At 2 week intervals, the doctor may then increase the dose to 3 milligrams, 4.5 milligrams, and finally 6.0 milligrams 2 times a day. Higher doses tend to be more effective. The maximum dosage is 12 milligrams daily.

If side effects such as nausea and vomiting begin to develop, the doctor may recommend skipping a few doses, then starting again at the same or the next lowest dosage.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of Exelon overdose may include:
  Collapse, convulsions, breathing difficulty, extreme muscle weakness (possibly ending in death if breathing muscles are affected), low blood pressure, salivation, severe nausea, slow heartbeat, sweating, vomiting