GENERIC NAME: DONEPEZIL - ORAL (doh-NEP-eh-zil)

BRAND NAME(S): Aricept

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: Donepezil is used to treat mild to moderate confusion (dementia) related to Alzheimer's disease. It does not cure Alzheimer's disease, but it may improve memory, awareness, and the ability to function. This medication is an enzyme blocker that works by restoring the balance of natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth once daily with or without food, usually just before bedtime, or as directed by your doctor. If you experience sleeping problems (insomnia), talk to your doctor about switching to a morning dose. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Do not stop taking it or increase the dosage unless your doctor instructs you to do so. It may take a few weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, tiredness, drowsiness, trouble sleeping, or muscle cramps may occur as your body adjusts to the drug. These effects usually last 1-3 weeks and then subside. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes (depression), slow/irregular heartbeat, fainting, vision problems, more frequent or trouble with urination, weight loss. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, severe stomach/abdominal pain, seizures. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

galantamine, Razadyne, Razadyne ER - Read about galantamine (Razadyne, Razadyne ER - formerly known as Reminyl), a drug used to treat Alzheimer's disease and Dementia. Information includes side effects and drug interactions. Source:MedicineNet Alzheimer's Disease - Learn about Alzheimer's disease, a common cause of dementia. Symptoms and warning signs include: memory loss, difficulty performing familiar tasks, disorientation to time and place, misplacing things, and more. Source:MedicineNet rivastigmine, Exelon - Source:MedicineNet Read 27 more donepezil related articles ... Common Medications Could Cause Physical Impairment in the Elderly Alzheimer's Drug Nothing to Sneeze At Alzheimer's Drugs Which Work? Groups Issue New Dementia Drug Guidelines