Aricept

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Prescription Drug Information, Side Effects & Interactions for Aricept

Uses
This medication is used to treat Alzheimer's disease.

Notes

Storage

Aricept Aricept

How To Use

Take this medication orally.
It is usually taken once daily just before bedtime.
This medication may be taken with or without food.
It may take a few weeks before the full effects of donepezil are noticed.
Take donepezil exactly as directed.
Do not stop taking it or increase the dosage unless your doctor instructs you to do so.

Side Effects

Donepezil may cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, insomnia, muscle cramps, unusual tiredness or loss of appetite.
If these effects continue or worsen, contact your doctor.
Unlikely but report headache, dizziness or fainting, weight loss, vision problems, chest pain, joint pain, depression, unusual dreams, drowsiness, new mental changes, rash, stomach pain, frequent urination or unsteadiness.
Very unlikely but report slow or irregular heartbeat, slurred speech, seizures or black stools.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before taking donepezil tell your doctor if you have a history of seizures, liver disease, heart problems, stomach or intestinal problems, lung disease or allergies, especially any drug allergies.
Because of the possibility this drug will make you dizzy and affect coordination, do not drive or operate machinery until you get used to the drug's effects.
Limit or avoid alcohol intake as it may increase the possibility you will get dizzy or sleepy.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if donepezil is excreted into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Missed Dose

Take any missed dose as soon as possible but not if it is almost time for the next dose.
If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
Do not "double-up" the dose.

Drug Interactions

Before taking this medication tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking especially anticholinergics (e.g., atropine, scopolamine, benztropine, diphenhydramine), succinylcholine, neostigmine or bethanechol.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.