aricep (DONEPEZIL)

What is Aricep?

Aricep is a medication used to treat Alzheimer's disease and dementia. It works by increasing acetylcholine in the brain, helping with memory and thinking. It manages symptoms but does not cure dementia.

How do I take Aricep?

You can take Aricep hydrochloride tablets with or without food. It doesn't matter if you take it with food or not.

For how long do I take Aricep?

Aricep is typically used for the long term in treating Alzheimer's disease, often for several months to years . Initial treatment usually starts at 5 mg daily, which can be increased to 10 mg after a few weeks. Some patients may continue using Aricep effectively for few years , depending on individual response and tolerance. 

What is Aricep used for?

Aricep hydrochloride tablets are a medication used to treat people with dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease. It helps to improve symptoms like memory loss, confusion, and difficulty thinking.

How long does it take for Aricep to start working?

Aricep may take several weeks to show noticeable improvements in symptoms like memory and cognition. Full effects can take 6-12 weeks or longer, depending on the individual. It's important to continue taking it as prescribed and follow up with your doctor.

Is Aricep effective?

Aricep hydrochloride is a medication that can help improve memory and thinking in people with certain types of dementia. In this study, people taking Aricep hydrochloride showed significant improvement in their cognitive performance, as measured by the Severe Impairment Battery (SIB), compared to people taking a placebo.

How does one know if Aricep is working?

To assess the effectiveness of Aricep hydrochloride, a two-part evaluation strategy is used. **Part 1: Cognitive Function** * The cognitive subscale of the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS-cog) is used to measure cognitive function, such as memory, thinking, and language skills. **Part 2: Overall Function** * Caregivers provide their assessment of the patient's overall function, including daily living activities and social behavior, using the Clinician's Interview-Based Impression of Change (CIBIC-plus).

How does Aricep work?

Aricep works by increasing the levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter in the brain that is involved in memory and learning. In Alzheimer's disease, acetylcholine levels are lower, so Aricep helps improve communication between brain cells, which can improve memory, thinking, and daily function.

Who should avoid taking Aricep?

Aricep should be avoided by individuals who:

1. Are allergic to Aricep or any of its ingredients.
2. Have a history of heart problems, especially slow heart rate or irregular heartbeat.
3. Have stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal issues.
4. Have a history of seizures or other neurological disorders.

Always consult a doctor before starting Aricep, especially if you have any of these conditions.

Can I take Aricep with vitamins or supplements?

Aricep can generally be taken with vitamins or supplements, but it’s important to avoid certain interactions. For example, antioxidant supplements like vitamin E and C may interfere with Aricep’s effectiveness. Always inform your doctor about any vitamins or supplements you are taking to ensure there are no interactions.

Can I take Aricep with other prescription drugs?

Some medicines can affect how Aricep works. Ketoconazole and quinidine can slow down the breakdown of Aricep in the body, which can lead to higher levels of Aricep in the body. The effects of this are not fully understood.

Can Aricep be taken safely while pregnant?

There is no information on whether Aricep hydrochloride tablets can harm an unborn baby during pregnancy. Studies in animals have not shown developmental problems when the medicine was given during pregnancy. However, giving the medicine to rats during the last part of pregnancy and while nursing resulted in more stillbirths and fewer surviving offspring. This occurred at doses similar to those used in humans.

Can Aricep be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Information on Aricep, a medication, and breastfeeding is limited. While there is no data on the presence of Aricep in breast milk or its effects on the baby, the benefits of breastfeeding should be weighed against any potential risks. The mother's need for the medication and her overall health should also be considered.

Is Aricep safe for the elderly?

Aricep has not been proven safe or effective for children. For adults over 65, the starting dose is 5 mg daily in the evening. After 4-6 weeks, the dose can be increased to 10 mg daily if tolerated. Nausea and vomiting are more common at the 10 mg dose. Monitor closely after starting or increasing the dose. Bradycardia (slow heart rate), heart block, and fainting are possible side effects, particularly for those with heart problems. Report fainting immediately.

How should I store Aricep?

Keep the product in a cool place, between 68° and 77° Fahrenheit.

Does Aricep make people tired or drowsy?

Yes, fatigue is a reported side effect of Aricep, occurring in 5% of patients taking the 10 mg dose, compared to 3% in the placebo group. If you feel excessively tired, speak with your healthcare provider to discuss possible adjustments or supportive care.

Does Aricep cause stomach upset?

Yes, Aricep frequently causes gastrointestinal issues such as nausea (11%), diarrhea (10%), and vomiting (5%) at the 10 mg dose. These side effects are often transient. If symptoms persist or are severe, contact your healthcare provider.

Does Aricep affect sleep?

Yes, insomnia is reported in 9% of patients on the 10 mg dose. If you experience disrupted sleep, consult your doctor for potential remedies or adjustments in dosing time.

Does Aricep make it hard to think or concentrate?

Aricep may cause cognitive side effects like confusion or dizziness, but these are less frequent (approximately 2%). If you notice significant cognitive impairment, contact your healthcare provider.

Does Aricep affect mood?

Mood changes, including depression, are reported in about 3% of patients. If mood swings or anxiety occur, notify your healthcare provider for evaluation.

Does Aricep interfere with sexual function?

There is no specifically mention sexual side effects for Aricep. If you experience such issues, consult your healthcare provider.

Does Aricep affect appetite?

Aricep hydrochloride may cause a loss of appetite. In studies, 4% of people taking Aricep hydrochloride lost their appetite, compared to 2% of people taking a placebo (a pill with no medicine). If you experience a change in appetite while taking Aricep hydrochloride, talk to your doctor.

Does Aricep cause weight gain?

Weight loss is more commonly associated with Aricep, reported in 3% of cases. Significant weight changes should be discussed with your doctor.

Does Aricep cause headaches?

Aricep hydrochloride tablets don't usually cause headaches. However, if you get a headache while taking them, talk to your doctor.

Does Aricep limit driving?

Aricep hydrochloride, a medication used to treat Alzheimer's disease, can cause fainting, especially in people with heart problems. If you experience fainting while taking this medication, stop driving immediately and call your doctor.

What are Aricep possible harms and risks?

Some common side effects of this medicine include diarrhea, loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, and bruising. These side effects usually go away after a while and don't require any changes to the dosage. However, about 13% of patients who started with a lower dose and gradually increased to a higher dose had to stop taking the medicine because of side effects. The most common side effects that led to patients stopping the medicine were loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea, and urinary tract infections.