Adhesive for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease already available by SUS

A new form of treatment for Alzheimer's disease is available in the SUS. The rivastigmine drug, already available in tablets and oral solution, is now also available as a transdermal patch.

Rivastigmine causes an increase in the substance called acetylcholine, which is reduced in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease. the drug can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea, decreased appetite and headaches.

The addition of the stamp to the SUS drug list represents an improvement in the quality of life of some patients. According to Rodrigo Schultz, president of the Brazilian Association of Alzheimer's Disease, the adhesive also ensures that there are no side effects

According to Rodrigo Schultz, president of the Brazilian Association of Alzheimer's Disease, the adhesive also ensures that there are no side effects. dose fluctuation: "Being transdermal, there is a continuous and regular release throughout the 24 hours, preventing dose fluctuation, ie the increase and decrease of the drug in the body while it is being metabolized. "

According to Schultz, many patients refuse to use oral medications and often take the drug out of their own mouths after they've had it. administration.

Alzheimer's is a neurodegenerative disease caused by the progressive death of brain cells, impairing functions such as memory, attention and orientation and language, which has serious consequences on the quality of life of patients. The disease has no cure.

In Brazil, according to 2017 data, it is estimated that there are 1.1 million people with the disease.

Any patient with Alzheimer's disease who is taking rivastigmine may use the drug in an adhesive version: "There is a population that benefits more than the one who has trouble swallowing or has side effects, "says Schultz

The patch can also be used in the bath and should be removed 24 hours after use. Because it is placed on the skin, the adhesive can occasionally cause reactions at the site of its establishment and therefore a rotation on the site of use of the patch is recommended

" In case of failure, tablets or oral solution can be used without any problems, without any risk, "says Schultz

According to the Ministry of Health , the drug is already available in health units responsible for the distribution of such drugs.

Still according to the department, patients must eligibility criteria for clinical protocols and therapeutic guidelines and submit the following documents in a designated health facility:

• copy of the national health insurance card (CNS)
• copy of the identity document, receipt of the application attesting to the authenticity according to the original identification document;
• Award for Drug Application, Evaluation and Authorization of the Dedicated Pharmaceutical Assistance Specialist (LME)
• Duly Completed Medical Prescription
• ] Required Documents in Clinical Protocols and Therapeutic Guidelines published in the are final by the Ministry of Health, depending on the disease and the requested medicine; and
• copy of proof of residence.

In addition to rivastigmine, SUS also provides other drugs for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease: Donepezil, Galantamine and Memantine.

The Department explains that the addition of the adhesive version of the drug to the list provided by SUS is due to the

"Rivastigmine was already administered orally, but it had the disadvantage of cause gastrointestinal discomfort in the patient, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.To attempt to reduce these side effects, it has been incorporated This new presentation, which will be indicated by the doctor accompanying the patient. , Alzheimer's patients may take more or less medication than the amount prescribed due to forgetfulness, "says a note from the Department of Health.