Drug Uses

Aricept is a cholinesterase inhibitor that is used to treat mild to moderate dementia (impairment of memory, judgment, and abstract thinking and changes in personality) in patients suffering from Alzheimer disease.

How it is taken

The best way to take Aricept is as recommended by your doctor. However, normally, it is taken before bedtime with or without food by mouth. You may also check dosage instructions on the product label.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Aricept works by increasing the amount of acetylcholine in the brain which thereby reduces the symptoms of Alzheimer disease in patients.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Aricept then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines (Aricept or to piperidine derivatives (e.g., cyproheptadine), food or other substances.

Certain drugs can interact with Aricept and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then consult your doctor before using Aricept. It is unknown whether Aricept is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Inform your doctor about Aricept before you receive any dental treatment, emergency treatment or surgery.

Aricept may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or lightheadedness. These effects will get aggravated if the drug is consumed with alcohol. So, it is recommended that you use Aricept with caution or do not perform possibly unsafe tasks until you know how to react to the drug.

Some of the common side effects of Aricept are diarrhea, dizziness or lightheadedness, loss of appetite, weight loss, headache, nausea, tiredness, vomiting and weakness. You may contact your doctor if these side effects persist.

Other severe side effects include allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue),  chest pain, difficulty swallowing, fainting, irregular or slow heartbeat, shortness of breath, fainting, loss of bowel control, loss of bladder control, unusual mood changes, vomit that contains blood or look like coffee grounds.

You must seek medical attention immediately if these side effects occur.