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Donepezil |
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What is Donepezil and why is it prescribed? Donepezil can provide some relief from the symptoms of early Alzheimer's disease. Donepezil 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, Donepezil must be taken regularly. If Donepezil 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 Donepezil? Follow your doctors directions for taking Donepezil. Donepezil should be taken once a day just before bedtime. Be sure it's taken every day. If Donepezil is not taken regularly, it won't work. Donepezil 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 Donepezil at room temperature. Are there any Donepezil side effects? Donepezil side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Donepezil 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 Donepezil 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 Donepezil? If Donepezil 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. Donepezil will increase the effects of certain anesthetics. Make sure the doctor is aware of Donepezil therapy prior to any surgery. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Donepezil 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 Donepezil? Donepezil 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, Donepezil can make stomach side effects worse. |
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