Medications and Drugs
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.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- 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.
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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