Key facts about Aricept
What is Aricept?
Aricept is the brand name for donepezil and is available as an oral tablet and an oral disintegrating tablet.
What dosages is Aricept available in?
Aricept is available as a 5 mg, 10 mg, 23 mg oral tablet and a 5 mg and 10 mg oral disintegrating tablet.
What is Aricept used for?
Aricept is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of
dementia of the Alzheimer’s type.
How does Aricept work?
Aricept is a acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. Researchers don’t know exactly how it helps treat Alzheimer’s disease, but the medication prevents the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is important in transmitting signals through nerves in the brain for learning and memory.
How do I take Aricept?
Aricept is typically taken by mouth once daily.
Is it safe for me to take Aricept?
Aricept is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not take this medication if you have a known hypersensitivity to donepezil hydrochloride or to piperidine derivatives.
Aricept Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Aricept include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Trouble sleeping
- Pain
- Dizziness
- Muscle cramps
- Tiredness
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
Aricept Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Aricept. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Symptoms of active or occult gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding
- Seizures
- Slow heart rate
- Trouble urinating
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Aricept
The following medications may interact with Aricept:
- Cholinesterase inhibitors have the potential to interfere with the activity of anticholinergic medications. A synergistic effect may be expected with concomitant administration of succinylcholine, similar neuromuscular blocking agents, or cholinergic agonists
Who makes Aricept?
Eisai Inc.
Is Aricept safe in pregnancy?
Aricept may cause harm to your unborn baby, based on animal studies. Talk with your healthcare provider about the risks of taking Aricept if you become pregnant.
