Exelon(R)Patch, the First and Only Skin Patch for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease, Receives First Worldwide Approval in US.

- Once-daily skin patch offers novel approach to treating mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease, providing smooth and continuous delivery of drug over 24 hours

- Similar efficacy to highest doses of Exelon capsules with significant improvement in memory and overall functioning compared to placebo

- Exelon Patch preferred by caregivers in a study because it helps manage patient care and gives visual reassurance that medication has been administered

- Exelon Patch minimizes gastrointestinal side effects seen with oral form of drug

EAST HANOVER, N.J., July 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Exelon Patch (rivastigmine transdermal system) has received its first worldwide approval in the United States as an innovative way to deliver an effective medicine for mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease patients through a skin patch instead of an oral capsule.

This new therapy is the first and only transdermal treatment for this degenerative condition affecting millions of people in the US. Exelon Patch offers effective treatment based on placebo-controlled clinical trial results showing significant benefits to patients in terms of their memory and overall functioning.

Exelon Patch maintains steady drug levels in the bloodstream, improving tolerability and allowing a higher proportion of patients to receive therapeutic doses compared to the capsule form of the medication. It is applied to the back, chest or upper arm, and provides smooth and continuous delivery of medication through the skin over 24 hours.

Gastrointestinal side effects are commonly seen with this class of drugs called cholinesterase inhibitors. The recommended dose of Exelon Patch greatly reduces these…