In rivastigmine patch therapy, which parameter should be monitored to assess tolerability and effectiveness?

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

Answer: (C)

Tolerability of rivastigmine patches is often limited by GI side effects that can lead to reduced appetite and weight loss. Tracking body weight provides a direct, practical measure of how well a patient is tolerating the therapy and maintaining nutritional status. If weight is stable or improving, it suggests better tolerability and ongoing suitability of the treatment. In contrast, while blood pressure or heart rate can be affected by cholinergic activity, they don’t directly reflect how well the patient is tolerating the patch in daily functioning. Liver function tests aren’t routinely required unless there are signs of liver issues, making weight the most useful single parameter to monitor for both tolerability and overall treatment impact.