Drug Type: Rivastigmine tartrate is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (AChEI) and is used as a medication for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease dementia.
Mechanism of Action: - Acetylcholinesterase Inhibition: Rivastigmine tartrate works primarily by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter associated with cognitive function. By inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, rivastigmine increases acetylcholine levels in the brain, thus improving cholinergic function. - Butyrylcholinesterase Inhibition: In addition to acetylcholinesterase, rivastigmine also inhibits butyrylcholinesterase, which is another enzyme responsible for acetylcholine breakdown. This dual inhibition differentiates rivastigmine from other AChE inhibitors and contributes to its efficacy.
