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
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
Can Aricept be stopped abruptly?
Do not stop taking Aricept (donepezil) without consulting your healthcare provider. If you stop taking Aricept abruptly, your Alzheimer’s disease symptoms can worsen. It is generally recommended to slowly taper down your dose of Aricept before stopping completely. Your doctor can help you stop Aricept safely. 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
Related medical questions
- How long does it take for Aricept to work?
- What are the current medications for Alzheimer's disease?
- What is piracetam used for?
- Does Zetia (ezetimibe) cause memory loss?
- Can Gemtesa cause dementia?
- What's the mechanism of action for Leqembi (lecanemab-irmb)?
- How does Namenda work?
- Caring for a Senior with Dementia
- What is Quercetin and what are its health benefits?
- What are 4 key Namenda side effects to watch out for?
- Is Razadyne (galantamine) used to treat Alzheimer’s?
- Is Leqembi used to treat Alzheimer's?
Drug information
Related support groups
- Donepezil (9 questions, 28 members)
- Aricept (11 questions, 43 members)
- Dementia (28 questions, 140 members)
- Alzheimer's Disease (25 questions, 97 members)