Aricept: Enhance Cognitive Function in Alzheimer's Disease
Aricept
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| Product dosage: 5mg | |||
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Synonyms
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Aricept (donepezil hydrochloride) is a prescription medication specifically formulated for the treatment of dementia related to Alzheimer’s disease. As a centrally acting reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, it works by increasing the concentration of acetylcholine in the brain, a neurotransmitter critical for memory, learning, and cognitive processing. Clinically proven to improve cognitive function, slow symptom progression, and support daily living activities, Aricept represents a cornerstone in the pharmacological management of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s dementia under specialist supervision.
Features
- Active ingredient: Donepezil hydrochloride
- Available in 5 mg and 10 mg film-coated tablets
- Once-daily oral dosing regimen
- Selective, reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibition
- FDA-approved for mild, moderate, and severe Alzheimer’s disease
- Bioavailability of approximately 100% with linear pharmacokinetics
- Peak plasma concentration reached in 3–4 hours post-administration
- Half-life of approximately 70 hours, permitting steady-state concentration
Benefits
- Demonstrated improvement in cognitive assessment scores (e.g., ADAS-cog, MMSE)
- Slows the progression of memory loss and cognitive decline
- Enhances functional ability in activities of daily living (ADLs)
- May delay nursing home placement
- Supports caregiver burden reduction through sustained patient independence
- Well-established safety profile with over two decades of clinical use
Common use
Aricept is indicated for the treatment of dementia of the Alzheimer’s type. It is used across all stages—mild, moderate, and severe—to ameliorate cognitive deficits and functional impairments. It is often initiated following a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, including neuroimaging and cognitive testing, and is typically prescribed as part of a multidisciplinary approach that includes non-pharmacological interventions and caregiver support.
Dosage and direction
The recommended initial dose for Aricept is 5 mg administered orally once daily, preferably at bedtime. After 4–6 weeks, if well tolerated, the dose may be increased to 10 mg once daily. Dosage adjustment is not typically required for elderly patients or those with renal or mild to moderate hepatic impairment, but caution is advised. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water, with or without food. Do not crush or chew.
Precautions
Patients with a history of cardiac conduction abnormalities (e.g., sick sinus syndrome, bradycardia) should be closely monitored due to the potential for vagotonic effects. Use with caution in those with a history of peptic ulcer disease or those taking NSAIDs, as donepezil may increase gastric acid secretion. Asthma, COPD, or other pulmonary conditions may be exacerbated due to increased bronchial secretions. Periodic monitoring of weight is recommended.
Contraindications
Aricept is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to donepezil hydrochloride, piperidine derivatives, or any excipients in the formulation. It should not be used in those with severe hepatic impairment. Concomitant use with other cholinomimetics or anticholinesterase agents is contraindicated.
Possible side effects
The most common adverse reactions are nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, vomiting, muscle cramps, fatigue, and anorexia. These are often dose-related and may diminish with continued treatment. Less frequently, bradycardia, syncope, seizures, gastrointestinal bleeding, or bladder outflow obstruction may occur. Patients should report any signs of unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, which could indicate rare but serious conditions like rhabdomyolysis.
Drug interaction
Aricept may potentiate the effects of succinylcholine-type muscle relaxants during anesthesia. Concurrent use with anticholinergic medications may reduce its efficacy. CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, quinidine) may increase donepezil concentrations. Use with beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or digoxin may increase the risk of bradycardia. NSAIDs may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, salivation, sweating, bradycardia, hypotension, respiratory depression, seizures, and muscle weakness. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. General supportive measures should be instituted; atropine may be used as an antidote, with an initial intravenous dose of 1 to 2 mg, with subsequent dosing based on response.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15–30°C or 59–86°F) in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep in the original container, tightly closed. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.
Disclaimer
This information is intended for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment decisions, and personalized medical guidance. Do not initiate or discontinue any medication without discussing it with your physician.
Reviews
Clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance over more than 20 years have consistently demonstrated Aricept’s efficacy in stabilizing or improving cognitive and functional outcomes in Alzheimer’s patients. Many neurologists and geriatric specialists regard it as a first-line therapy, noting its manageable side effect profile and once-daily convenience. Patient families often report slowed decline and improved engagement, though individual responses vary. Long-term studies support its role in delaying disease progression and maintaining quality of life.