| Brand Name: |
Aricept |
| Generic Name: |
Donepezil Hydrochloride |
| Form: |
Tablets |
| Manufacturer: |
Pfizer |
*Please note: The product is manufactured in Turkey and is only available with Turkish language packaging.
What is Aricept?
Aricept containing the active ingredient donepezil belongs to a class of medication called cholinesterase inhibitors. It works by preventing the breakdown of the natural substance acetylcholine to improve mental functions such as memory, attention, thinking, awareness and reasoning. By slowing the loss of these abilities the medication can be used to treat mild to moderate dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease. The medication can help treat and slow the conditions but cannot be used as a cure or prevent the loss of mental abilities in the future.
How is Aricept used?
Aricept is usually taken orally once per day at bedtime or as directed by a doctor. The medication can be taken with or without food but should be taken with some fluids. Contact a doctor for the correct dosage as it will depend on the patient’s condition and their response to the therapy. The tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed or split to decrease the risk of side effects. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting a doctor as it may lead to a relapse in the patient’s condition.
Adverse effects
Patients taking Aricept may encounter unwanted side effects such as:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Weight loss
- Insomnia
- Loss of appetitie
Contact a doctor immediately should side effects persist or encounter more severe side effects such as:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Fainting
- Painful or difficult urination
- Seizures
- Tremors
- Black, bloody or tarry stools
- Hallucinations
- Muscle cramps
Warnings
Immediately proceed to your nearest emergency department if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms usually associated with such a reaction include difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, swelling, skin rashes, and hives.
Aricept is not always suitable for all patients. Always consult your health care provider prior to using this medication if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, using any other medication (prescription or non-prescription), using any herbal products or supplements, or if you have any allergies or other health problems.
The correct dosage and prescription commonly depend on the patient and the condition being treated. Do not adjust your dosage without the approval of your health care provider. This product is only for use as prescribed and instructed. |
