Aricept (Donepezil)

Do's

• Read the patient information leaflet provided by the pharmacist before starting or refilling a prescription for Aricept. If there are any questions, consult your healthcare provider for clarification.  
• Take Aricept by mouth with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily just before bedtime. 
• Consult your healthcare provider if sleep problems (insomnia) occur, to discuss switching to a morning dose. 
• Swallow 23-milligram strength tablets whole. 
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage carefully, starting at a low dose and gradually increasing it over weeks to months to minimize side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. 
• Follow the instructions of your healthcare provider.  
• Consult your healthcare provider before restarting Aricept if it has not taken for 7 or more days in a row. Starting at a lower dose may be necessary to decrease the risk of side effects. 
• Using this medication regularly is crucial to obtain the most benefit from it. Taking it at the same time each day can help in remembering the dosage. 
• Report any changes in condition to your healthcare provider for appropriate guidance and monitoring. 

Don'ts 

• Avoid splitting, crushing, or chewing tablets to reduce the risk of side effects. 
• Do not increase the dose or use the drug more frequently than prescribed. 
• Do not discontinue the medication unless instructed by your healthcare provider, as it may take several weeks before the full benefit of the drug is realized. 

The dosage of Aricept is based on the individual's medical condition and response to treatment.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Difficulty sleeping
• Vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite

These side effects may improve over time with continued use of the medication. However, any persistent or bothersome symptoms should be discussed with your healthcare provider for appropriate guidance.

Severe Side Effects:

• Worsening of lung problems in individuals with asthma or other lung diseases
• Seizures
• Difficulty passing urine
• Fainting
• Heartburn or stomach pain that is new or persistent
• Presence of blood in vomit or dark vomit resembling coffee grounds
• Bowel movements or stools that appear like black tar

If any of these severe side effects are experienced, seek immediate medical attention and consult your healthcare provider.

Prior to taking Aricept, inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, including heart rhythm disorders, enlarged prostate, urination problems, asthma, obstructive pulmonary disease, or seizure disorders such as epilepsy. Additionally, if there is an upcoming surgery, inform the surgeon in advance about the use of Aricept.

Aricept is intended for long-term treatment, and if it is determined to be safe and effective for an individual, it is likely to be used long term. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding the duration of treatment.

Aricept may interact with other drugs. Discuss all medications being taken, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, with your healthcare provider to avoid potential interactions.

Aricept should be stored at controlled room temperature, between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C), and it should be kept out of the reach of children.

Keep all appointments with your healthcare providers and maintain a written list of all prescription and nonprescription medicines being taken, including vitamins, minerals, and other dietary supplements. 

For more detailed information about the warnings and precautions for Aricept, consult your healthcare provider and refer to the patient information leaflet provided with the medication.