What is Aricept (Donepezil) used for?
The brand-name cholinesterase inhibitor medication Aricept is available by prescription only. Alzheimer's disease in adults with mild, moderate, or severe dementia can be treated with this drug. In dementia, mental function (cognition) declines. In addition to its progressive nature, Alzheimer's disease affects the brain in many ways. Symptoms are usually mild at first, but get worse with time, thus it's called a progressive condition. Alzheimer's disease cannot be cured at the moment. Some people may benefit from Aricept by slowing the progression of dementia symptoms.
Aricept (Donepezil) FAQs
How To Use Aricept (Donepezil)?
Before beginning Aricept (Donepezil) or whenever you get a refill, read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. Your doctor or pharmacist can answer any questions you may have.
As directed by your doctor, you should take this medication by mouth once a day just before going to bed, either with or without food. Ask your doctor about changing your dosage to the morning if you suffer from sleep issues (insomnia).
It is important that you swallow the 23 mg dose tablets whole if you take them. There is an increased risk of side effects if these tablets are split, crushed, or chewed.
The dose is determined by the treatment you are receiving and your medical condition. Mild to moderate Alzheimer's should only need 10mg tablets long term.
During the first few weeks or months after starting this medication, your doctor will gradually increase your dose to reduce your risk of side effects (such as nausea and diarrhea).
Ensure that you follow the instructions provided by your doctor. This drug should not be used more frequently than prescribed or at a higher dose. Exceeding the recommended dose can increase your risk of experiencing side effects. If you miss a dose you can take it when you remember. You should skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next one.
Call your doctor before starting Aricept (Donepezil) again if you've been off for 7 days or more. You might need to start on a lower dose to reduce the risk of common side effects.
To maximize the effectiveness of this medication, take it regularly. It will be easier to remember if you take it every day at the same time. Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, do not stop taking it. You may not notice the full effects of this drug for several weeks.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a severe adverse reaction including slow heartbeats, heart problems.
What are the side effects of Aricept (Donepezil)?
The most commonly reported side effects of Aricept (Donepezil) include:
- weight loss
- diarrhea
- dizziness
- sleep problems (insomnia)
- weakness
- feeling unwell (malaise)
- appetite loss
- tiredness
- shakiness (tremor)
- drowsiness
- itchy skin
- vomiting
- muscle cramps
- nausea
There are other side effects that may occur that are not listed on this page.
Additional information about side effects can be obtained from your physician.
What are Drug Interactions of Aricept (Donepezil)?
Few known Drug Interactions of Aricept (Donepezil) are listed below.
- Synthroid (Levothyroxine)
- Metoprolol
- Lasix (Furosemide)
- Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)
- Tylenol (Acetaminophen)
- Gabapentin
- Lisinopril
- Seroquel (Quetiapine)
- Amlodipine
- Aspirin
- Lipitor (Atorvastatin)
- Plavix (Clopidogrel)
- Simvastatin
- Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
- Trazodone
- Memantine
- Omeprazole
- ibuprofen, advil, motrin
A complete list of Aricept (Donepezil) Drug Interactions is not available on this page. Consult your physician if you have any questions about this medicine's drug interactions.
How much does Aricept cost in Canada?
Starting price of Aricept 5mg cost in Canada
- 30 tabs - $173.00 USD ($5.77 per tabs)
- 60 tabs - $344.00 USD ($5.73 per tabs)
- 90 tabs - $513.00 USD ($5.70 per tabs)
Starting price of Aricept 10mg cost in Canada
- 30 tabs - $173.00 USD ($5.77 per tabs)
- 60 tabs - $344.00 USD ($5.73 per tabs)
- 90 tabs - $513.00 USD ($5.70 per tabs)
How much does the generic equivalent Donepezil cost in Canada?
Starting price of Donepezil 5mg cost in Canada
- 100 tabs - $78.00 USD ($0.78 per tabs)
Starting price of Donepezil 10mg cost in Canada
- 10 tabs - $15.00 USD ($1.50 per tabs)
- 30 tabs - $18.00 USD ($0.60 per tabs)
- 60 tabs - $24.00 USD ($0.40 per tabs)
- 90 tabs - $30.00 USD ($0.33 per tabs)
- 100 tabs - $33.33 USD ($0.33 per tabs)
Do you need a prescription for Aricept (Donepezil) in Canada?
You do require a prescription to order Aricept (Donepezil) in Canada. Licensed pharmacies are unable to dispense prescription required drugs without one.