FDA OKs Exelon Patch for Alzheimer's DIsease, Parkinson's Dementia

The FDA has
approved Exelon Patch, the first skin patch for the treatment of mild to
moderate Alzheimer's disease.

Exelon Patch is also approved to treat mild to moderate Parkinson's disease
dementia, according to Exelon's maker, the drug company Novartis.

Exelon isn't a new drug. It's already available in capsules to treat mild to
moderate Alzheimer's disease and mild to moderate dementia associated with
Parkinson's disease.

In July 2006, researchers reported that putting
Exelon in a patch form might simplify the drug's use (especially for people
who have trouble swallowing pills) and reduce nausea and vomiting associated
with Exelon's class of drugs.

Exelon Patch "greatly reduces" the drug's gastrointestinal side
effects, says Novartis.

The patch is applied once daily to the back, chest, or upper arm. It
maintains steady blood levels of the drug throughout the day, according to
Novartis.

Exelon Patch's Approval

Novartis says that the FDA approved Exelon Patch based on results from an
international study that included nearly 1,200 patients with mild to moderate
Alzheimer's disease.

The patients took Exelon capsules, wore the Exelon patch, or got a placebo
treatment.

"Exelon Patch showed similar efficacy to the highest doses of Exelon
capsules and the recommended dose (9.5 milligrams per 24 hours) was generally
well tolerated by patients," says Novartis.

At higher-than-recommended doses, the patch is associated with nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss, and weight loss, notes Novartis.

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By Miranda Hitti
Reviewed by Louise Chang
B)2005-2006 WebMD, Inc. All rights reserved