Common Use

Aricept contains the active ingredient donepezil hydrochloride, which is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. It works by preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for signal transmission in the central nervous system. Aricept is used to slow the progression of dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Dosage and Directions

Take Aricept orally before bedtime. The recommended starting dose is 5 mg once daily for one month. The dose may be increased to 10 mg per day if needed. Do not swallow or chew the tablet whole; allow it to dissolve in your mouth. While it dissolves, you may swallow occasionally.

Precautions

Inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• Sick sinus syndrome
• Enlarged prostate
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Urination problems
• Asthma
• Duodenal or stomach ulcers
• Epilepsy or seizure disorders

Also, notify your doctor if you are taking NSAIDs, other choline inhibitors, or if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Contraindications

Aricept should not be used by patients who are hypersensitive to donepezil or piperidine derivatives.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Allergic reactions (hives, rash, facial swelling)
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Coughing up blood or vomit resembling blood or coffee grounds
• Painful or difficult urination
• Seizures (blackouts or convulsions)

Drug Interactions

Aricept may interact with the following:

• Cytochrome P450 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, quinidine, itraconazole, erythromycin, fluoxetine) can increase its concentration.
• Cytochrome P450 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenytoin, carbamazepine, ethanol) can reduce its concentration.
• Cholinostimulators may unpredictably enhance its effects, while choline inhibitors may weaken them.
• Combining Aricept with drugs for general anesthesia or NSAIDs may increase the risk of adverse reactions.

Missed Dose

Do not take a double dose. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule.

Overdose

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as severe nausea, vomiting, drooling, excessive sweating, light-headedness, slow heartbeat, blurred vision, fainting, seizures, shallow breathing, or muscle weakness.

Storage

Store Aricept at room temperature (59-86°F or 15-30°C) in a dry place away from moisture and sunlight. Avoid storing it in the bathroom.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of the medication and does not cover all possible instructions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider or doctor for specific guidance tailored to your condition. We disclaim any responsibility for the accuracy of this information or its potential consequences. We are not liable for any direct, indirect, or incidental damages arising from the use of this information or self-treatment.