Aricept

Generic name: Donepezil hydrochloride

What is Aricept?

Aricept is prescribed to provide some relief from the symptoms of early Alzheimer's disease. Aricept can temporarily improve brain function in some Alzheimer's sufferers, although it does not halt the progress of the underlying disease.

What is the most important information I should know about Aricept?

Aricept can aggravate asthma and other breathing problems, and can increase the risk of seizures. It can also slow the heartbeat, cause heartbeat irregularities, and lead to fainting episodes. Contact your doctor if any of these problems occur.

To maintain any improvement, Aricept must be taken regularly. If the drug is stopped, its benefits will soon be lost. It can take up to 3 weeks for any positive effects to appear.

Who should not take Aricept?

There are two reasons to avoid Aricept: an allergic reaction to the drug itself, or an allergy to a group of drugs known as piperidine derivatives (ask your doctor for a list of these medications).

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Aricept?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Aricept. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have asthma or other breathing problems, seizures, heart problems, fainting problems, or stomach ulcers.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual starting dose is 5 milligrams once a day at bedtime for at least 4 to 6 weeks. Do not increase the dose during this period unless directed. The doctor may then change the dosage to 10 milligrams once a day if response to the drug warrants it.

How should I take Aricept?

Aricept should be taken once a day just before bedtime. Be sure it's taken every day. If Aricept is not taken regularly, it won't work. It can be taken with or without food.

What should I avoid while taking Aricept?

Use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) cautiously. In patients who have had stomach ulcers, and those who take NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, Aricept can make stomach side effects worse.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Aricept?

Aricept will increase the effects of certain anesthetics. Make sure the doctor is aware of Aricept therapy prior to any surgery.

If Aricept is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Aricept with the following: antispasmodic drugs such as dicyclomine hydrochloride and propantheline, bethanechol chloride, carbamazepine, dexamethasone, ketoconazole, phenobarbital, phenytoin, quinidine, and rifampin.

What are the possible side effects of Aricept?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: diarrhea, fatigue, insomnia, loss of appetite, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, abnormal dreams, arthritis, bruising, depression, dizziness, fainting, frequent urination, headache, pain, sleepiness, weight loss

Can I receive Aricept if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Since it is not intended for women of child-bearing age, Aricept's effects during pregnancy have not been studied, and it is not known whether it appears in breast milk.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Aricept?

Make it up as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one that was missed and go back to the regular schedule. Never double the dose.

How should I store Aricept?

Store at room temperature.