Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Donepezil is prescribed for the treatment of dementia, specifically for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a progressive brain disorder leading to memory loss, impaired thinking, learning, communication, and daily functioning.
Donepezil falls into the category of medications known as cholinesterase inhibitors. This medication operates by enhancing mental functions, including memory, attention, interpersonal interactions, speech, clarity of thought, and the ability to carry out routine activities. It achieves this by increasing the levels of a naturally occurring substance in the brain.
Uses and Dosage
Keep the tablet in its pouch until ready for use. Ensure your hands are dry before handling the medication. Open the pouch and peel back the foil layer, avoiding pushing the tablet through to prevent damage. Place the dose on your tongue for quick dissolution. Once fully dissolved, drink a glass of water.
Take this medication as directed by your doctor, usually before bedtime and with or without food. If you encounter sleep issues (insomnia), consult your doctor about potentially switching to a morning dose.
The dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. To minimize the risk of side effects such as nausea and diarrhea, your doctor will initiate treatment at a low dose, gradually increasing it over weeks to months.
Adhere strictly to your doctor’s instructions, avoiding self-adjustment of dosage or increased frequency.
If you miss taking donepezil for 7 or more consecutive days, consult your doctor before resuming to potentially begin at a lower dose.
Consistent use of the medication is crucial to maximize its benefits. To aid in remembering, take it at the same time daily. Do not discontinue without your doctor’s guidance, as it might take several weeks before experiencing the full benefits of the drug.
Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- frequent urination
- difficulty controlling urination
- muscle cramps
- joint pain, swelling, or stiffness
- pain
- excessive tiredness
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- headache
- dizziness
- nervousness
- depression
- confusion
- changes in behavior or mood
- hallucinations (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist)
- abnormal dreams
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- fainting
- slow heartbeat
- chest pain
- new or worsening breathing problems
- new or worsening stomach pain or heartburn
- black or tarry stools
- red blood in stools
- bloody vomit
- vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- difficulty urinating or pain when urinating
- lower back pain
- fever
- seizures
- discoloration or bruising of the skin
Caution
- Before taking donepezil, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, as this product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Discuss your medical history, particularly if you have a history of breathing problems, fainting, seizures, stomach/intestinal diseases (like ulcers or bleeding), or difficulty urinating (such as an enlarged prostate).
- This medication may induce dizziness or drowsiness. Combining it with alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects.
- Avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can safely do so.
- Donepezil has the potential to cause a condition that affects heart rhythm (QT prolongation), leading to serious, albeit rare, consequences such as a fast/irregular heartbeat or fainting. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe dizziness or fainting. The risk of QT prolongation may be higher if you have certain medical conditions or are taking drugs that also affect QT prolongation. Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking and disclose any relevant medical conditions, including certain heart problems or a family history of such issues.
- Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may increase the risk of QT prolongation. Discuss the safe use of donepezil with your doctor, particularly if you are using certain drugs (such as diuretics/”water pills”) or if you are experiencing conditions like severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the drug’s side effects, especially with regards to QT prolongation.
- For pregnant individuals, use this medication only when clearly necessary and discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- The passage of this drug into breast milk is uncertain. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Aricept ODT is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Aricept ODT disintegrating tablet:
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
FAQ
How quickly does Aricept ODT work?
You probably won’t notice the effects of Aricept right away. Aricept will take time to raise the levels of acetylcholine in your brain. You’ll likely notice some difference in cognitive abilities before the 3-month mark.
Why is Aricept ODT taken at night?
It’s recommended to take Aricept at night so you can sleep through some of the side effects. One of the more serious side effects is a slow heartbeat, which can raise your risk of fainting.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/donepezil/what-is#faqs
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/act-donepezil-odt
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/donepezil-oral-route/description/drg-20063538
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-93147/aricept-odt-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a697032.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/aricept-odt.html#dosage
