What is this medication for?
Donepezil belongs to the family of medications called cholinesterase inhibitors. This medication is used for the treatment of people with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. Donepezil does not cure Alzheimer's disease. It works in the brain to improve thinking, memory, attention, and the ability to do simple tasks.
Although the exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is not well understood, it is thought to involve the degeneration of certain nerve cells in the brain that make a chemical called acetylcholine. This chemical is thought to be important for the processes of learning and memory. Donepezil prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine, thereby increasing its levels in the brain. Donepezil is of the most benefit in mild to moderate disease and is of little benefit when the disease becomes severe.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Aricept ODT® is available as:
- orally-disintegrating tablets
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended initial dose of donepezil is 5 mg once daily. If the response is not adequate after 4 to 6 weeks, your doctor may increase the dose to 10 mg daily, which is the daily recommended maximum dose. The medication should be taken in the evening before bed, and it can be taken with or without food. Allow the orally disintegrating tablet to dissolve on the tongue and follow with water.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Anyone allergic to donepezil or to any of the ingredients of the medication or to piperidine-type medications should not use this medication.
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