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Donepezil - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

Donepezil Medication Information

Learn everything you need to know about Donepezil-pronunciation, uses, dosage guidelines, indications, and when to take or avoid it.

Get up-to-date information on side effects, precautions, warnings, and proper storage to ensure safe usage.

Explore Donepezil brand names commonly used in India and internationally, along with detailed pricing information. Consult your healthcare provider for tailored medical advice.

Generic Name : Donepezil
Pronunciation : doe nep e zil
ICD Code : Y51.8 Therapeutic Classification : Anti- Alzheimer's Agents

Brand Names or Trade Names of Donepezil

India :

International :


Aricept, Aricept ODT

Why is Donepezil Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a cholinesterase inhibitor, prescribed for dementia of Alzheimer's disease. It works by increasing the amount of acetylcholine in the brain, which helps in improving mental function.

When should Donepezil not be taken? (Contraindications)

Hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Donepezil?

Adult: PO- Initial: 5 mg/day in the evening, up to 10 mg/day after 4-6 week.

How should Donepezil be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Donepezil?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of heart disease, stomach problems, liver or kidney disease, breathing problems, urinary obstruction, brain tumor, head injury, seizures, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or fainting, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

• It should not be used in children.

What are the side effects of Donepezil?

Most frequent - Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, muscle cramps, fatigue and loss of appetite.
Body as a Whole - Headache, generalized pain and fatigue.
Heart - Fainting.
Blood - Bruising.
Metabolic - Decreased weight.
Musculoskeletal - Muscle cramps and joint inflammation.
Central Nervous System - Sleeplessness, dizziness, depression, abnormal dreams and drowsiness.
Genitourinary - Frequent urination.

What are the other precautions for Donepezil?

Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Donepezil?

Store it at controlled room temperature (15° to 30°C), and in an airtight container.

Donepezil : Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the best time to take Donepezil?

A: Donepezil is usually taken once daily, with or without food, in the evening before going to bed. Donepezil should be taken every day at the same time(1 Trusted Source
Donepezil

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).

Q: Does Donepezil cause weight loss?

A: The most common adverse effects of donepezil are the gastrointestinal side effects that can cause loss of appetite and weight loss. It can cause weight loss in 5% of patients. The incidence rises with increasing doses(2 Trusted Source
Rivastigmine Improves Appetite by Increasing the Plasma Acyl/Des-Acyl Ghrelin Ratio and Cortisol in Alzheimer Disease

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).

Q: Does Donepezil cause gastric problems?

A: Donepezil may cause an increase in gastric acid secretion. Donepezil should be used with caution in patients at risk of developing ulcer disease, and GI bleeding symptoms must be monitored(3 Trusted Source
Donepezil

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).

Q: Who should not take Donepezil?

A: Patients with known hypersensitivity to donepezil hydrochloride or piperidine derivatives should not take donepezil(3 Trusted Source
Donepezil

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).

Q: What happens if Donepezil is taken more than the recommended dose?

A: Donepezil overdose can cause severe nausea, vomiting, sweating, and salivation. Bradycardia, hypotension, respiratory depression, collapse, muscle weakness, and seizures are all possible side effects(3 Trusted Source
Donepezil

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).