by D. Vogt

Created on: July 20, 2010

Donepezil is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor which is used to treat Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Although there is currently no cure or single effective treatment for Alzheimer's disease, studies show that donepezil may be able to reduce the severity of the disease's effects in its mild to moderate stages, and possibly in severe cases. For treating Alzheimer's, it may be used alongside memantine (Azura, Namenda, Memox or Ebixa). Research is also underway into donepezil's effects on other forms of dementia and on autism, although it is currently on the market specifically as an Alzheimer's treatment. It comes in tablet form, and, depending on the doctor's judgement of the case, dosage may start low and then increase after several weeks.

Note that donepezil is the drug chemical name for a compound which is also marketed under the brand name Aricept by the Pfizer and Eisai pharmaceutical corporations.

Before taking donepezil or allowing an elderly relative to do so, you should discuss with your doctor any particular concerns you have about the medication. In particular, a previous allergic reaction to donepezil is a strong indication that the drug should not be taken again. Your doctor should always be made aware if you have a history of ulcers, seizures, or heart disease, or are currently taking other prescription medications.

There are a large number of relatively mild and common side effects of donepezil. These include red and itchy skin, fatigue or insomnia, increased need to urinate, dizziness, confusion, depression, cramps and pains, digestive difficulties (reduced appetite, nausea, and constipation or diarrhea), and unusual dreams. As with all medications which may cause drowsiness, it is important not to drive or to operate heavy machinery if donezepil may make you drowsy while doing so. Otherwise, the National Institutes of Health recommend that you discuss these potential side effects of donepezil with your doctor only if they are particularly serious or persistent.

In addition, however, there are a number of side effects of donepezil which indicate a more serious reaction to the durg, and require a more urgent response. The National Institutes of Health warn that you should contact your doctor or seek other medical attention immediately after noticing blood in vomit or stool (the latter may turn black or tar-coloured from the presence of blood), fainting, seizures, or an unusually low heartbeat (bradychardia).

The above information is based on research into publicly available sources. However, when it comes to prescription medication, there is no substitute for professional medical guidance from the patient's doctor or pharmacist, which should always be followed precisely.

- Sources and More Information -

Alzheimer Society. "Alzheimer Treatment: Aricept, Donepezil."

National Institutes of Health. "Donepezil: MedlinePlus Drug Information."

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