Safely Buy Aricept ODT ( Donepezil ) from Canada Prescriptions Plus.
Indications
Donepezil is used to treat confusion (dementia) related to Alzheimer’s disease.
Donepezidoes not cure Alzheimer’s disease, but it may improve memory, awareness, and the ability to function. This medication is an enzyme blocker that works by restoring the balance of natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.
Use and Dosage
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking donepezil and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Do not remove the tablet from its pouch until you are ready to take it. Dry your hands before handling the medication. Open the pouch and peel back the foil layer. Do not push the tablet through the foil because it may get damaged. Place the dose on your tongue where it will quickly dissolve. After the tablet dissolves completely, drink a glass of water.
Take this medication with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually just before bedtime. If you experience sleep problems (insomnia), talk to your doctor about switching to a morning dose.
Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects (such as nausea and diarrhea), your doctor will start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose over weeks to months. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often than prescribed.
If you do not take donepezil for 7 or more days in a row, talk with your doctor before starting again. You may need to start at a lower dose.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Do not stop taking it unless your doctor instructs you to do so. It may take several weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug.
Tell your doctor if your condition worsens.
Side Effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Serious side effects include:
- Slow heartbeats
- A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out
- New or worsening stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, or vomiting
- A seizure
- Painful or difficult urination
- New or worsening breathing problems
- Signs of stomach bleeding–bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Common side effects of donepezil may include:
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle pain
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Feeling tired
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur.
Cautions
- Before taking donepezil, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
- Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: breathing problems (such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), fainting, seizures, stomach/intestinal disease (such as ulcers, bleeding), and trouble urinating (such as enlarged prostate).
- This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
- Donepezil may cause a condition that affects the heart rhythm (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, and fainting) that need medical attention right away.
- The risk of QT prolongation may be increased if you have certain medical conditions or are taking other drugs that may cause QT prolongation. Before using donepezil, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take and if you have any of the following conditions: certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG), family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death).
- Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also increase your risk of QT prolongation. This risk may increase if you use certain drugs (such as diuretics/”water pills”) or if you have conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Talk to your doctor about using donepezil safely.
- Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially QT prolongation (see above).
- During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Forms and Strengths
Aricept ODT is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Aricept ODT Orally Disintegrating:
- 10 mg
FAQ
What happens if I miss a dose?
Skip the missed dose and use your next dose at the regular time. Do not use two doses at one time.
If you miss your doses for more than 7 days in a row, call your doctor before taking the medicine again.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention.
Overdose symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, drooling, sweating, blurred vision, feeling light-headed, slow heartbeat, shallow breathing, muscle weakness, fainting, or seizure (convulsions).
What should I avoid while taking donepezil?
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how donepezil will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.
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Additional information
Brand Name: |
Aricept ODT |
|---|---|
Scientific Name: |
Donepezil |
Other Names: |
Aricept Evess |
Strength(s): |
10mg |
Quantities Available: |
84 |
Formulation: |
Orally Disintegrating Tablet |
