A 78-year-old man prescribed rivastigmine patches; during initial consultation, monitoring importance is explained. Which is a monitoring requirement for rivastigmine?

• A. Blood pressure
• B. Weight
• C. Renal function
• D. Liver function tests

Answer: (B)

Weight change is the key thing to monitor when starting rivastigmine because weight loss is a known adverse effect, even with the transdermal patch. In older adults, unintended weight loss can signal reduced appetite, dehydration, or medication intolerance and can affect overall health and treatment success. Recording baseline weight and checking it at follow-up helps detect meaningful loss early, allowing steps like nutritional support, adequate hydration, or adjustments to therapy if needed. Other parameters such as blood pressure or renal function aren’t specifically required to monitor with rivastigmine, and liver function tests aren’t routinely done unless symptoms suggest liver issues.