How does Aricept work?
Aricept (donepezil) helps improve brain function by preventing the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine. This chemical is crucial for memory, thinking, and reasoning. People with dementia often have lower levels of acetylcholine.
Aricept belongs to a class of drugs called cholinesterase inhibitors, which work by increasing acetylcholine levels to support better brain function. However, it does not change the progression of dementia itself.
References
- Aricept (donepezil) Package Insert. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/020690s035,021720s008,022568s005lbl.pdf
Read next
Can Aricept be stopped abruptly?
No, you should not stop taking Aricept (donepezil) suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider. Abruptly discontinuing Aricept may cause a worsening of Alzheimer’s disease symptoms. Continue reading
What are 7 key Aricept side effects to watch out for?
Common side effects of Aricept include nausea, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, muscle cramps, and low appetite. For most people, these side effects last a few weeks and get better with continued use of Aricept. Continue reading
When is the best time to take Aricept (donepezil)?
The manufacturer recommends taking Aricept (donepezil) in the evening just before bedtime. Aricept can cause nausea and vomiting in some patients, as well as dizziness. Taking it before bedtime may help these side effects be less noticeable. However, your prescriber might recommend taking Aricept at a different time if it’s interfering with your sleep. Continue reading
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