Aricept

Brand Names

Donepezil

What is Aricept

Aricept is one of only two drugs which provide certain relief from symptoms of mild, moderate, or severe Alzheimer's disease. Aricept does not stop the progress of the disease but may improve brain function in some people with an early Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease causes physical changes in the brain that interfere with the flow of information and disrupts memory, thinking and results in behavioral changes.

Side effects of Aricept

If you have noticed any of these serious Aricept side effects stop taking it immediately and contact your doctor:

• black, bloody, or tarry stools
• coughing up blood or vomit that looks like blood or coffee ground
• painful or difficult urination
• seizure (black-out or convulsions)

Less serious side effects may include the followings:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• loss of appetite
• muscle cramps
• tired feeling
• sleep problems (insomnia)

Indication

Aricept is intended for the treatment of mild to moderate dementia of the Alzheimer’s type. It does not cure Alzheimer's disease, but it may improve memory, awareness, and the ability to function. This medication is an enzyme blocker that works by restoring the balance of natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

Precautions

You should inform your doctor if you have any of these conditions:

• a heart rhythm disorder such as "sick sinus syndrome" (slow heartbeats)
• a history of stomach ulcers
• an enlarged prostate or urination problems
• epilepsy or other seizure disorder
• asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

This medication can harm an unborn baby. Discuss its safeness for you and your unborn baby with your doctor. Does it pass into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby is unknown. You should not take it until your doctor will instructs you.

Dosage forms

Adults

The starting Aricept dosage is 5 mg. once a day at bedtime, for 4 to 6 weeks period. You should not change your dosage until your doctor will instruct you to do so. If it is warranted, your doctor may increase your Aricept dosage to as high as 10 mg.

Children

The medication has not been tested in children for either safety or effectiveness yet.

Overdose:

• Any other medication taken in excess of the recommended amount can be life-threatened. In case of overdose of Aricept contact your doctor immediately.

Symptoms of overdose are:

• Collapse, convulsions, extreme muscle weakness (possibly ending in death), low blood pressure, nausea, salivation, slowed heart rate, sweating, vomiting .

It is important to take your Aricept dosage as prescribed. The only way to receive the benefits of this effective Alzheimer’s medication is consistently and accurately using your Aricept dosage.