Aricept (donepezil hydrochloride) is a prescription medication specifically formulated for the treatment of dementia related to Alzheimer’s disease. As a centrally acting reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, it works by increasing the levels of acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter involved in memory, attention, reasoning, and language. This medication is indicated to improve cognitive function and may help slow the progression of symptoms in mild, moderate, and severe cases. Clinical evidence supports its use as a first-line pharmacological intervention in managing Alzheimer’s-related cognitive decline under specialist supervision.

Features

• Active ingredient: Donepezil hydrochloride
• Available in 5 mg and 10 mg film-coated tablets
• Once-daily oral dosing for patient convenience
• FDA-approved for all stages of Alzheimer’s disease
• Demonstrated efficacy in global cognitive, functional, and behavioral assessments

Benefits

• Improves memory recall and cognitive processing
• Enhances ability to perform daily activities and maintain independence
• May slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease symptoms
• Supports better communication and social interaction
• Can contribute to reduced caregiver burden
• Provides a well-tolerated treatment option with extensive clinical data

Common use

Aricept is primarily prescribed for the treatment of dementia of the Alzheimer’s type. It is used to manage cognitive decline including memory impairment, disorientation, and impaired judgment. Healthcare providers may initiate therapy following a confirmed diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and continue treatment based on periodic assessments of therapeutic benefit and tolerability.

Dosage and direction

The recommended initial dose for Aricept is 5 mg administered once daily, preferably at bedtime. After 4-6 weeks of treatment, the dose may be increased to 10 mg once daily if well tolerated. Dosage should be individualized based on therapeutic response and tolerability. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water and may be taken with or without food. For patients with hepatic impairment or those who are poor metabolizers, dose adjustment may be necessary under medical supervision.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored for gastrointestinal effects including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Caution is advised in patients with cardiac conduction abnormalities, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Regular monitoring of weight is recommended due to potential appetite suppression. Patients with peptic ulcer disease should use Aricept with caution. Supervision is advised when initiating treatment in patients taking multiple medications.

Contraindications

Aricept is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to donepezil hydrochloride, piperidine derivatives, or any components of the formulation. It should not be used in patients with documented severe hepatic impairment. Concomitant use with other cholinergic agents or anticholinesterase medications is contraindicated.

Possible side effects

Common adverse reactions (≥5% incidence) include nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, fatigue, vomiting, muscle cramps, anorexia, and ecchymosis. Less frequent side effects may include bradycardia, syncope, seizures, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Urinary incontinence and headache have been reported in clinical trials. Most side effects are mild to moderate and often diminish with continued treatment.

Drug interaction

Aricept may potentiate effects of succinylcholine-type muscle relaxants. Concomitant use with anticholinergic medications may reduce efficacy. CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 inhibitors may increase donepezil concentrations. Beta-blockers may enhance bradycardic effects. NSAIDs may increase risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Carbamazepine, phenytoin, dexamethasone, and rifampin may decrease donepezil concentrations.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not take double or extra doses to make up for a missed dose.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, salivation, sweating, bradycardia, hypotension, respiratory depression, syncope, and convulsions. Due to the cholinergic effects, increasing muscle weakness may occur and could result in death if respiratory muscles are involved. Treatment should include general supportive measures and intravenous atropine sulfate titrated to effect.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep in the original container with the lid tightly closed to protect from moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Aricept should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Patients should consult their physician for diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Individual results may vary based on disease progression and patient-specific factors.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that approximately 60-80% of patients show stabilization or improvement in cognitive function with Aricept treatment. Many caregivers report improved quality of life and maintained functional abilities in patients. Some patients experience significant gastrointestinal side effects initially, though these often subside with continued use. Long-term studies suggest sustained benefits in cognitive and global function for up to several years in responsive patients.