What is Donepezil used for?

Donepezil is used to treat mild-to-moderate dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease. It is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that reduces the breakdown of a compound called acetylcholine in the brain. This, in turn, improves cognitive processes of thinking, learning and memory, as well as patient function in Alzheimer's disease.

How to take Donepezil?

The dosage of Donepezil prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.

If your physician has instructed or directed you to take Donepezil medication in a regular schedule and you have missed a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses unless otherwise directed.

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Donepezil, seek medical attention immediately. Some of the overdose symptoms of this drug are sweating, convulsions, vomiting, severe nausea, slow heartbeat, and muscle weakness.

What are the drugs that interact with Donepezil?

• Atropine
• Carbamazepine
• Clidinium
• Dexamethasone
• Dicyclomine
• Glycopyrrolate
• Hyoscyamine
• Mepenzolate
• Methantheline
• Methscopolamine
• Phenobarbital
• Phenytoin
• Propantheline
• Quinidine
• Rifampin

It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Donepezil.

Usually drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines that may increase the effect of Donepezil, and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.

Donepezil can interact with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and fungal antibiotics.

Do let your doctor know if you smoke, consume alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or use illegal drugs as these may interfere with the action of your medication. Make sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, or any family history of medical problems. Do not start or stop using any medicine without consulting your doctor.

What are the side Effects of Donepezil?

Like other medicines, Donepezil can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Donepezil are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.

It is pertinent to note that side effects of Donepezil cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Donepezil develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.

Donepezil can cause side effects such as :

• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Insomnia
• Tiredness
• Muscle cramps
• Drowsiness

Some of the serious side effects of this drug are :

• Black stools
• Convulsions
• Depression
• Vision problems
• Slow/irregular heartbeat

This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Donepezil.

What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Donepezil?

Is it possible for me to take Donepezil with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I take Donepezil?
What are the possible drug interactions of Donepezil?
How will Donepezil work in my body?
How should Donepezil be taken?
How to reduce the risk of Donepezil drug interactions and side effects?

What should you tell your doctor before taking Donepezil?

Before using Donepezil, inform your doctor if you have asthma, low blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, and stomach disease. It is also important to let your healthcare provider know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. As this drug may cause dizziness, caution needs to be exercised while driving or operating heavy machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages while using Donepezil.

Disclaimer:

The contents of this website are for informational purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.