Aricept

Common Name: donepezil

How does Aricept work?

This medication is used for the treatment of people with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. Donepezil does not cure Alzheimer's disease. It works in the brain to improve thinking, memory, attention, and the ability to do simple tasks. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Aricept?

The recommended initial dose of donepezil is 5 mg once daily. If the response is not adequate after four to six weeks, your doctor may increase the dose to 10 mg daily, which is the daily recommended maximum dose. For senior women with a low body weight, it is recommended that the dose of donepezil not exceed 5 mg daily. The tablet can be taken with or without food. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken on a regular schedule as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double doses.

What form(s) does Aricept come in?

Aricept® is available in strengths of 5 mg and 10 mg. 5 mg: Each white, film-coated tablet, marked "ARICEPT" on one side and "5" on the other, contains donepezil 5 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cornstarch, hydroxy propylcellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, and microcrystalline cellulose; film-coating: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, polyethylene glycol, talc, and titanium dioxide. 10 mg: Each yellow, film-coated tablet, marked "ARICEPT" on one side and "10" on the other, contains donepezil 10 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cornstarch, hydroxypropyl cellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, and microcrystalline cellulose; film-coating: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, iron oxide, polyethylene glycol, talc, and titanium dioxide.

What should I NOT take with Aricept?

Anyone allergic to donepezil or to any of the ingredients of the medication or to piperidine-type medications should not use this medication.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Aricept?

Asthma and lung conditions: Donepezil should be used with caution by people with asthma or lung conditions as it could cause symptoms of these conditions to worsen. Chronic illness: In general, people with chronic medical conditions should be cautious when taking donepezil because of the increased risk of side effects. The benefits of taking the medication must be carefully weighed against the risks. Epilepsy: There is a possibility that donepezil may increase the risk of seizures in susceptible people. People with a history of seizure disorder should speak to their doctor about the risks and benefits of taking donepezil. Heart disease: Donepezil should be used with caution by people with heart disease such as active coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure. Donepezil has the potential to slow the heart rate. Liver and kidney disease: Since little information exists on the use of donepezil by people with liver and kidney disease, it is recommended that close monitoring for side effects take place under these circumstances. Stomach problems: Donepezil has the potential to cause an increase in the amount of acid that the stomach produces. It should therefore be used with appropriate caution by people who are at increased risk of developing stomach ulcers. Pregnancy: The safety of donepezil for use during pregnancy has not been established. Therefore, it should not be used by women who are or may become pregnant unless, in the opinion of their doctor, the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Breast-feeding: The safety of donepezil for use while breast-feeding has not been established. Therefore, it should not be used by nursing women unless, in the opinion of their doctor, the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Children: Donepezil is not recommended for use by children.