Generic name:
donepezil (doh NEP e zil)
Drug class:
Donepezil is a cholinesterase inhibitor.
Brand names:
ARICEPT, ARICEPT ODT
Manufacturer:
Eisai, Pfeizer
Item info:
ARICEPT (donepezil hydrochloride) is a prescription drug used to treat Alzheimer's disease. It works by helping reduce the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, and enhancing cholinergic function.
ARICEPT is the only prescription medicine approved for treatment of all stages of Alzheimer's disease - mild, moderate, and severe.
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, a term that describes a group of brain disorders. Alzheimer's involves the parts of the brain that control thought, memory and language, and which makes it hard for patients to perform daily tasks.
ARICEPT is available in tablet form. You can buy ARICEPT online through online pharmacies or online ordering systems like Euromedonline. If you need a prescription, you can fill out our prescription request form and a US-licensed physician will issue you with one.
Contraindications:
Do not take ARICEPT without informing your doctor of your sensitivity to its formulation: (active) donepezil hydrochloride; (inactive) lactose monohydrate, corn starch, microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, magnesium stearate, and yellow iron oxide (synthetic) as coloring agent. The film coating contains talc, polyethylene glycol, hypromellose and titanium dioxide.
Do not start ARICEPT medication without first talking to your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
The existence of these conditions may require your doctor to prohibit, make a dosage adjustment or call for special monitoring while taking ARICEPT medication.
Donepezil is in the FDA pregnancy category C, which means that it is not known whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby, or whether it can be passed on through breastfeeding. ARICEPT has no indication for use in nursing mothers.
Interactions:
Do not take ARICEPT (donepezil hydrochloride) without first talking to your doctor if you are taking other prescription or over-the-counter medicines; including vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements.
ARICEPT (donepezil hydrochloride) may interact with the following medicines:
Side effects:
Most common side effects known to ARICEPT medication includes:
If you develop allergic-type reactions, stop taking ARICEPT and seek immediate medical attention.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome.
Dosage:
Take ARICEPT exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Frequency and dosage varies with type of condition. If you do not understand these directions, or if you would like to learn more about the medication you are taking, ask your pharmacist or nurse to explain them to you. You may also call 1.866.279.1400 for 24/7 customer support.
Take ARICEPT in the evening, at bedtime.
ARICEPT can be taken with or without food.
ARICEPT should be taken whole; do not break in half or crush.
Storage:
Store ARICEPT between 15-30°C (59-86°F).
More information:
http://www.aricept.com