Aricept (Donepezil)

Aricept

Common use: Aricept contains the active ingredient donepezil hydrochloride, which is an inhibitor of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. This blocks the disintegration of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for the transfer of excitation in the central nervous system. Aricept slows the progression of dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease.

Dosage and instructions: Take it orally before nighttime. The recommended starting dose is 5 mg once daily for one month. The dose may be increased up to 10 mg a day. Do not swallow or chew the tablet whole; wait until it dissolves in your mouth. While it is dissolving, you may swallow from time to time.

Contraindication:

Aricept cannot be used in patients with hypersensitivity to donepezil or derivatives of piperidine.

Adverse reactions:

The most frequent adverse reactions include:

• Allergy symptoms: hives, rash, facial swelling
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Coughing up blood or vomit that looks like blood or coffee grounds
• Painful or difficult urination
• Seizure: black-out or convulsions

Missed dose:

Never take a double dose of this medication. If it is almost time for the next dose, just skip the missed portion and continue to take the medicine according to the schedule.

Overdose:

Contact your doctor or seek immediate medical help if you experience the following symptoms:

• Severe nausea
• Vomiting
• Drooling
• Intensive sweating
• Feeling light-headed
• Slow heartbeat
• Sweating
• Blurred vision
• Fainting
• Seizure: convulsions
• Myasthenia gravis
• Shallow breathing
• Muscle weakness

Storage: Store at room temperature of 59-86 F (15-30 C) away from moisture and sunlight. Keep away from moisture (bathroom).