Rivastigmine impact on bundle branch blockage

Buggytoo

Yesterday my DH's doctor evaluated three successive EKG's (done in under 18 months) that indicate my husband has developed blockage in the conductivity of the heart in all but one branch. Dr. says it is likely due to rivastigmine. Dr. still believes the usefulness of the drug outweighs the risks. Does anyone have any experience with this or knowledge about the issue?

M1

All of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitors can cause slow heart rate and fainting (syncope) as well as conduction abnormalities. But a lot of other things can cause bundle branch blocks too. The bundle branch block itself is not dangerous if his heart rate was normal. The question would be whether YOU think he's benefited from rivastigmine. If he clearly has, it might be worth continuing. If not, then I'd probably stop it.

Buggytoo

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/214687#Comment_214687

Thank you for your response. I appreciate it. I am not sure if I think Rivastigmine is helping. . . My husband has such little mental clarity at this point.

M1

then I would probably stop it. Maybe not worth any additional risk

Iris L.

When I first began Exelon patch at the lower dose, 4.6 mg, I experienced two episodes of bradycardia, down to 50 beats/minute. I was concerned, but the bradycardia did not continue. I continued the Exelon patch and increased the dose to 9.5 mg, and I never had any more bradycardia.

Iris