Aricept 10mg Tablets (Generic Equivalent)

Aricept improves the function of nerve cells in the brain. It works by preventing the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine (ah see til KO leen). People with dementia usually have lower levels of this chemical, which is important for the processes of memory, thinking, and reasoning. Aricept is used to treat mild to moderate dementia caused by Alzheimer`s disease.

The health and medical information provided here is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of this medicine is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.

Before taking Aricept, tell your doctor if you have a heart rhythm disorder such as "sick sinus syndrome" (slow heartbeats), an enlarged prostate, urination problems, asthma, obstructive pulmonary disease, or a seizure disorder such as epilepsy.

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are taking Aricept.

Aricept can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using Aricept and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
black, bloody, or tarry stools;

coughing up blood or vomit that looks like blood or coffee grounds;

painful or difficult urination;

seizure (black-out or convulsions);

Less serious side effects may include:

nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;

loss of appetite;

muscle cramps;

tired feeling; or

sleep problems (insomnia).

Take Aricept exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are taking Aricept. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Aricept can be taken with or without food or milk.

Take the Aricept regular tablets with a full glass of water.
To take donepezil orally disintegrating tablet (Aricept ODT):

Keep the tablet in its blister pack until you are ready to take the medicine. Open the package and peel or cut the backing from the tablet blister. Do not push a tablet through the backing or you may damage the tablet.

Using dry hands, remove the tablet and place it in your mouth. It will begin to dissolve right away.

Do not swallow the tablet whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.

Swallow several times as the tablet dissolves. After the tablet dissolves completely, drink a glass of water.

Aricept is usually taken at bedtime. Follow your doctor`s instructions.