TACRINE - ORAL (Cognex) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

TACRINE-ORAL Index

tacrine - oral, Cognex

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GENERIC NAME: TACRINE - ORAL (TAK-reen)

BRAND NAME(S): Cognex

USES: This medication is used to treat mild to moderate confusion (dementia) due to Alzheimer's disease. Tacrine does not cure Alzheimer's disease, but it may improve memory, awareness, and the ability to take part in everyday life. This medication is called an enzyme blocker. Tacrine works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth on an empty stomach (at least one hour before meals), usually four times daily or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs, you may take this medication with food, though less of the medication will be absorbed. For this reason, it is best to take it without food. Your doctor will gradually increase your dose to reduce the risk of side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Dosage is based on your medical condition, liver function test results, and response to therapy.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. It may take up to 3-6 months to get the full benefit of this drug.Do not stop taking this medication or change your dose without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped or the dose is rapidly decreased. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach upset, loss of appetite, muscle aches, shaking (tremors), and loss of balance may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: weight loss, slow heartbeat, trouble urinating, change in amount of urine.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: severe stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing of eyes/skin, black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, seizures.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.