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Aricept |
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What is Aricept and why is it prescribed? Aricept is one of the few drugs that can provide some relief from the symptoms of early Alzheimer's disease. Aricept can temporarily improve brain function in some Alzheimer's sufferers, although it does not halt the progress of the underlying disease. To maintain any improvement, Aricept must be taken regularly. If the drug is stopped, its benefits will soon be lost. Patience is in order when starting the drug. It can take up to 3 weeks for any positive effects to appear. How should you take Aricept? Follow your doctors directions for taking Aricept. Aricept should be taken once a day just before bedtime. Be sure it's taken every day. If Aricept is not taken regularly, it won't work. It can be taken with or without food. If you miss a dose make it up as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one that was missed and go back to the regular schedule. Never double the dose. Store Aricept at room temperature. Are there any Aricept side effects? Aricept side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Side effects are more likely with higher doses. The most common are diarrhea, fatigue, insomnia, loss of appetite, muscle cramps, nausea, and vomiting. When one of these effects occurs, it is usually mild and gets better as treatment continues. Other Aricept side effects may include abnormal dreams, arthritis, bruising, depression, dizziness, fainting, frequent urination, headache, pain, sleepiness, and weight loss. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Aricept? If Aricept is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Aricept will increase the effects of certain anesthetics. Make sure the doctor is aware of Aricept therapy prior to any surgery. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Aricept with Antispasmodic drugs (such as Bentyl, Cogentin, and Pro-Banthine), Bethanechol chloride (Urecholine), Carbamazepine (Tegretol), Dexamethasone (Decadron), Ketoconazole (Nizoral), Phenobarbital, Phenytoin (Dilantin), Quinidine (Quinidex), or Rifampin (Rifadin, Rifamate). Are there any special warnings about Aricept? Aricept can aggravate asthma and other breathing problems, and can increase the risk of seizures. It can also slow the heartbeat, cause heartbeat irregularities, and lead to fainting episodes. Contact your doctor if any of these problems occur. In patients who have had stomach ulcers, and those who take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as Advil, Nuprin, or Aleve, Aricept can make stomach side effects worse. Be cautious when using Aricept and report all side effects to your doctor. |
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