Rivastigmine has a small effect in Alzheimer’s disease

Rivastigmine (six to 12 mg daily orally or 9.5 mg daily transdermally) appeared to be beneficial for people with mild to moderate AD. Compared to placebo, better outcomes were observed for rate of decline of cognitive function and activities of daily living, although the effects were small and of uncertain clinical importance. There was also a benefit from rivastigmine on the outcome of clinician's global assessment. There were no differences between the rivastigmine group and placebo group in behavioural change or impact on carers. At these doses, the transdermal patch seemed to have fewer side effects than the capsules but had comparable efficacy. The trials lasted 12 to 52 weeks.