Aricept (Donepezil Hydrochloride)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Aricept Used For?
Aricept is a medication that helps manage symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, which is a type of dementia. It does not cure the disease but may improve memory and cognitive function.
Primary Uses
Aricept is used for treating mild, moderate, and severe Alzheimer's disease.
How It Works
Aricept works by increasing levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter in the brain that is important for memory and learning.
Good to know: Aricept is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Aricept
It is important to take Aricept as prescribed by your doctor to manage your condition effectively.
Dosage Instructions
The usual starting dose is one 5 mg tablet taken once 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 miss a dose, 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, as this may increase the risk of side effects.
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
- Aggressive behavior
- Increased urination
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe upper stomach pain
- Changes in heart activity (prolonged QT interval)
- Fast irregular heartbeat
- Fainting
- Breathing difficulties
- Severe allergic reactions
- Vomiting blood
- Black sticky stools
- Convulsions
- Yellowing of the skin
- Sudden increase in body temperature
Impulse Control Issues
Some patients may experience impulse control problems, including gambling or spending issues.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind before using Aricept.
Who Should Not Take Aricept
Do not use Aricept if you have had an allergic reaction to donepezil or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have heart problems, low levels of magnesium or potassium, stomach ulcers, seizures, asthma, or 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 may require special consideration when using Aricept.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Aricept and affect its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit products, as they may affect how Aricept works.
- Other dementia medications
- Medications for stomach cramps or spasms
- Muscle relaxants
- Anaesthesia medications
- Anti-fungal medications (e.g., ketoconazole)
- Antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin)
- Corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone)
- Heart rhythm medications (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol)
- Antidepressants (e.g., citalopram, escitalopram)
- Medications for psychosis
- Medications for urinary difficulties
- NSAIDs
- Medications for high blood pressure
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when consuming alcohol or driving while on Aricept, as it may cause dizziness or fatigue.
Alcohol
Alcohol may increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness and fatigue.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how Aricept affects you.
Storage
Store Aricept in its blister pack in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Keep it away from moisture and heat.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
It may take several weeks to notice an improvement in symptoms.
Aricept can be taken with or without food.
No, Aricept is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Aricept without consulting your doctor, as it may worsen your symptoms.
It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking Aricept due to potential side effects.
Weight loss has been reported as a side effect, but weight gain is not commonly associated.
Elderly patients should be monitored closely, especially those with dementia.
Take the missed dose the following day at the usual time; do not double 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.