Aricept (Donepezil) for Alzheimer's

Overview
Aricept is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat mild, moderate, and severe Alzheimer’s disease. Aricept is also referred to by its drug name, Donepezil. Aricept is sometimes prescribed along with Namenda, another drug used to treat cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

Aricept is a cholinesterase inhibitor. Aricept is believed to work by slowing the breakdown of a neurotransmitter in the brain.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Aricept is generally taken once daily at bedtime.

Aricept comes in tablet and disintegrating tablet forms.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Aricept lists common side effects including diarrhea, vomiting, muscle cramps, trouble sleeping, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Aricept include seizures, worsening lung problems, slow heartbeat, and fainting.