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Generic Name : DONEZEPRIL (ORAL)

ABSTRACT –

Aricept is a cholinesterase inhibitor that is used to treat moderate dementia as a consequence of Alzheimer’s disease. This drug prevents the breakdown of a chemical named acetylcholine, which is found in poor levels within the nerve cells of the brain affected by Alzheimer’s. Aricept therefore, improves the functions of the nerve cells within the brain, although not entirely being a curative treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.

DOSAGE –

• • Aricept is to be taken as directed by the doctors. Do not stop using this drug unless advised so.
  • The regular oral tablet is to be consumed whole. The orally disintegrating tablet is to be kept within the mouth till dissolution.
  • This drug is generally taken once a day, before resting.
  • General Adult Dosage available:

Oral tablet – 5mg (Initial dose), 10mg (once a day)

SIDE EFFECTS –

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Insomnia
• Muscle pain
• Exhaustion

RARE SIDE EFFECTS:

• Severe vomiting
• Light-headedness
• Slowed palpitations
• Seizures
• Difficulty urinating
• Difficulties in breathing
• Stomach bleeding

DRUG INTERACTIONS –

• Bupropion
• Iohexol
• Iopamidol
• Metrizamide
• Siponimod
• Tramadol

Aricept has major interactions with 6 different drugs.

MODERATE DRUG INTERACTIONS –

• Acebutolol
• Albuterol
• Amiodarone
• Amlodipine
• Amoxapine
• Amobarbital
• Betaxolol
• Bosutinib
• Bisoprolol
• Doxepin
• Digoxin
• Imipramine
• Labetalol
• Lithium
• Lofexidine
• Moxifloxacin
• Olodaterol
• Paliperidone
• Phenytoin
• Quinidine
• Rifampin
• Romidepsin

Aricept has moderate interactions with 282 different drugs.

PRECAUTIONS –

• Provide the doctor a detailed and accurate medical history prior to drug prescription. Notify especially in case of arrhythmia, sick sinus syndrome, stomach ulcers, liver/kidney disease, epilepsy, asthmatic conditions, enlarged prostate or difficulties with swallowing.
• Do not use this drug in case of an allergy to Aricept itself.
• Notify a surgeon beforehand of drug intake in case of upcoming surgery or dental operation.

WARNINGS –

• As this drug may impair thinking and reaction time, avoid engaging in complicated activities such as driving that requires one to be fully alert.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. Symptoms of overdose generally include blurry vision, extreme sweating, difficulty breathing, fainting or seizures.