Is Aricept a good drug for dementia?

Aricept, also known as Donezepil, does not slow down the progression of the disease in the brain, but it can slow down further decline in cognition, usually for around six months. Aricept was the second drug approved for Alzheimer’s, after Cognex, a similar drug, but one with more side effects.

How long should you take Aricept?

The starting dose of Aricept is 5 mg. You’ll likely continue taking this dose each evening for 4 to 6 weeks. After 4 to 6 weeks, your doctor will likely increase your dosage of Aricept to 10 mg once per day. You’ll continue taking your dose in the evening at bedtime.

Can Aricept worsen dementia?

The traditional memory medications, cholinesterase inhibitors such as Aricept, may make this form of dementia worse and are usually not recommended. Antidepressants may be helpful.

When should Aricept be taken?

Aricept should be taken once a day at bedtime, with or without food. If you are taking the regular tablet form of Aricept, it is recommended that you take it with a drink of water or other fluid.

What are the side effects of Aricept?

Common side effects of Aricept include: diarrhea, insomnia, and nausea. Other side effects include: fatigue, muscle cramps, vomiting, weight loss, anorexia, and ecchymoses.

How long to use Aricept?

The maximum recommended dosage of ARICEPT in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease is 10 mg per day. A dose of 10 mg should not be administered until patients have been on a daily dose of 5 mg for 4 to 6 weeks.

Does Aricept Make you Sleepy?

Common side effects of Aricept include feeling unwell (malaise), appetite loss, weight loss, sleep problems (insomnia), muscle cramps, tiredness, drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, shakiness (tremor), itchy skin, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.