Brand name: DONECEPT
Pronounced: AIR-ih-sept
Generic name: Donepezil hydrochloride DONECEPT (DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil), Donepezil)
Why is DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) prescribed?

DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) is one of the few drugs that can provide some relief from the symptoms of early Alzheimer's disease. (Cognex, Exelon, and Reminyl are others.) Alzheimer's disease causes physical changes in the brain that disrupt the flow of information and interfere with memory, thinking, and behavior. DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) can temporarily improve brain function in some Alzheimer's sufferers, although it does not halt the progress of the underlying disease.
Most important fact about DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) without prescriptions

To maintain any improvement, DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) must be taken regularly. If the drug is stopped, its benefits will soon be lost. Patience is in order when starting the drug. It can take up to 3 weeks for any positive effects to appear.
How should you take DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil)?

DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) should be taken once a day just before bedtime. Be sure it's taken every day. If DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) is not taken regularly, it won't work. It can be taken with or without food.

If you miss a dose...

Make it up as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one that was missed and go back to the regular schedule. Never double the dose.

Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.
DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell the doctor as soon as possible. Only the doctor can determine if it is safe to continue DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil).

Side effects are more likely with higher doses. The most common are diarrhea, fatigue, insomnia, loss of appetite, muscle cramps, nausea, and vomiting. When one of these effects occurs, it is usually mild and gets better as treatment continues.

* Other side effects may include:
Abnormal dreams, arthritis, bruising, depression, dizziness, fainting, frequent urination, headache, pain, sleepiness, weight loss

Why should DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) not be prescribed?

There are two reasons to avoid DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil): an allergic reaction to the drug itself, or an allergy to the group of antihistamines that includes Claritin, Allegra, Atarax, Periactin, and Optimine.
Special warnings about DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil)

DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) can aggravate asthma and other breathing problems, and can increase the risk of seizures. It can also slow the heartbeat, cause heartbeat irregularities, and lead to fainting episodes. Contact your doctor if any of these problems occur.

In patients who have had stomach ulcers, and those who take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as Advil, Nuprin, or Aleve, DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) can make stomach side effects worse. Be cautious when using DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) and report all side effects to your doctor.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil)

DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) will increase the effects of certain anesthetics. Make sure the doctor is aware of DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) therapy prior to any surgery.

If DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) with the following:

Antispasmodic drugs such as Bentyl, Cogentin, and Pro-Banthine
Bethanechol chloride (Urecholine)
Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
Dexamethasone (Decadron)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Phenobarbital
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Quinidine (Quinidex)
Rifampin (Rifadin, Rifamate)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Since it is not intended for women of child-bearing age, DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil)'s effects during pregnancy have not been studied, and it is not known whether it appears in breast milk.
Recommended dosage for DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil)

ADULTS
Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

* Symptoms of DONECEPT (Aricept, Donepezil) overdose include:
Collapse, convulsions, extreme muscle weakness (possibly ending in death if breathing muscles are affected), low blood pressure, nausea, salivation, slowed heart rate, sweating, vomiting