Donepezil

Overview

It raises levels of acetylcholine, a brain chemical involved in memory.

What it's used for

• Mild, moderate, or severe Alzheimer's dementia

How to take it

• Take it once a day, usually at bedtime, with or without food.
• If it causes vivid dreams, ask about taking it in the morning.
• If several days are missed, ask before restarting at the full dose.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

• Nausea or diarrhea
• Trouble sleeping or vivid dreams
• Muscle cramps
• Less appetite and weight loss

Warnings

• Tell anyone giving you anesthesia that you take it.
• Use with care with heart rhythm problems, ulcers, asthma, or COPD.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

• NSAIDs raise the risk of stomach bleeding.
• Anticholinergic medicines (like diphenhydramine and oxybutynin) work against it.
• Beta blockers add to slow heart rate.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Not usually relevant; ask your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

• Memory loss and dementia

Similar medicines

• Rivastigmine