Description
Indications
Donepezil belongs to a class of medications known as cholinesterase inhibitors and is primarily utilized to manage the symptoms of dementia in individuals who have Alzheimer’s disease. Dementia, a neurological disorder that hinders an individual’s ability to recall, think coherently, communicate effectively, and perform day-to-day activities, may cause changes in mood and personality. Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive brain ailment that gradually impairs an individual’s memory, thought process, learning capabilities, communication skills, and daily activity management, is a typical cause of dementia.
Donepezil enhances cognitive function and may improve an individual’s ability to remember and think or slow down the deterioration of cognitive abilities in those with Alzheimer’s disease. However, donepezil cannot cure Alzheimer’s disease or prevent the loss of cognitive abilities in the future.
Uses and Dosage
Administration of this medication should be in accordance with your physician’s instructions. It may be taken orally with or without food, typically once daily, just prior to bedtime. If you experience insomnia, consult with your physician about transitioning to a morning dose.
Ingestion of 23-milligram strength tablets should be whole, without splitting, crushing, or chewing them. Any such action may heighten the likelihood of adverse reactions.
The dosage amount is contingent on your medical condition and the response to treatment. To minimize the possibility of side effects, such as diarrhea and nausea, your doctor will likely begin treatment with a low dose and gradually augment it over several weeks or months. Do not increase your dosage or frequency of use without authorization.
Before resuming treatment following a 7-day or longer discontinuation period, communicate with your physician. You may be required to start with a lower dosage to diminish the potential for adverse effects.
Regular administration of this medication is essential to achieve the greatest therapeutic benefit. Take it at the same time each day to aid in recall. Discontinue use only upon your physician’s direction. It may require several weeks before the full effects of the drug are experienced. Inform your doctor if your symptoms deteriorate.
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
- red, scaling, itchy skin
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
Prior to initiating donepezil, inform your physician or pharmacist about any allergies you may have or other allergies that you are aware of. This medication may contain inactive components that have the potential to elicit allergic reactions or other complications.
Prior to usage, communicate with your physician or pharmacist concerning your medical history, specifically if you have breathing difficulties, fainting, seizures, gastrointestinal tract disorders (e.g., ulcers, bleeding), or difficulty urinating.
This medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness. The use of alcohol or marijuana may intensify this effect. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or undertaking any activity that necessitates alertness until it is safe to do so.
Donepezil may cause QT prolongation, a condition that impacts heart rhythm. QT prolongation can infrequently result in a serious (rarely fatal) rapid/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting) that require prompt medical attention.
Older adults may be more vulnerable to the adverse effects of this medication, particularly QT prolongation.
During pregnancy, this medication should only be employed when clearly necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your physician.
It is unknown whether this medication passes into breast milk. Consult with your physician before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Aricept is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Aricept tablet:
- 5mg
- 10mg
- 23mg
-
donepezil tablet:
- 10mg
FAQ
What exactly does Aricept do?
Aricept is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. They are thought to work by increasing the level of a chemical called acetylcholine in the brain.
What are the advantages of taking Aricept?
Aricept improves the function of nerve cells in the brain. It works by preventing the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine.
Resources
- https://www.news-medical.net/drugs/Aricept.aspx#:~:text=Aricept%20is%20an%20acetylcholinesterase%20inhibitor,dementia%20of%20the%20Alzheimer%27s%20type
- https://www.drugs.com/aricept.html#:~:text=Aricept%20improves%20the%20function%20of,memory%2C%20thinking%2C%20and%20reasoning
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/donepezil-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20063538?p=1
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19848-donepezil-tablets
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-14335/aricept-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a697032.html