Arazil (Donepezil Hydrochloride)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Arazil Used For?
Arazil is a medication that helps manage symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, which is a form of dementia. It is not a cure but may improve memory and cognitive function.
Primary Uses
Arazil is primarily used to treat mild, moderate, and severe Alzheimer's disease.
How It Works
Arazil works by increasing levels of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain that is important for memory and thinking.
Good to know: Arazil is not considered addictive.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Arazil
It is important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking Arazil to ensure its effectiveness.
Dosage Instructions
The usual starting dose is one 5 mg tablet taken daily. After one month, your doctor may increase the dose to 10 mg daily based on your response.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take a tablet, take it the next day at the usual time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Important: Never double the dose if you miss one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- heartburn
- indigestion
- stomach pain
- headache
- dizziness
- difficulty sleeping
- unusual tiredness
- nausea
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- bruising
- muscle cramps
- joint pain
- tingling or numbness in hands or feet
- depression
- unusual dreams
- agitation
- increased urination
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- hallucinations
- tremors
- shuffling walk
- severe stomach pain with nausea and fever
- changes in heart activity
- fast irregular heartbeat
- fainting
Impulse Control Issues
Monitor for any changes in behavior, including increased impulsivity or aggression.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind before using Arazil.
Who Should Not Take Arazil
Do not use Arazil if you are allergic to donepezil hydrochloride or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have heart problems, seizures, asthma, or a history of aggressive behavior.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients with dementia should be monitored closely while taking Arazil.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Arazil and affect its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Arazil works.
- medicines for other types of dementia
- muscle relaxants
- anti-fungal medications like ketoconazole
- antibiotics such as clarithromycin and erythromycin
- medications for heart rhythm problems like amiodarone
- medications for depression including citalopram and fluoxetine
- anti-psychotic medications
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating vehicles while on Arazil.
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol as it may increase side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Arazil may cause fatigue and dizziness; do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you.
Storage
Store Arazil in its blister pack in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from moisture and heat.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
It may take several weeks to notice improvements in memory and thinking.
Arazil can be taken with or without food.
No, Arazil is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Arazil without consulting your doctor, as it may worsen your condition.
It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Arazil.
Weight loss is a common side effect, not weight gain.
Elderly patients should be monitored closely while taking Arazil.
Take the missed dose the next day at the usual time; do not double the dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.