Donepezil Hydrochloride

Generic Name: donepezil hydrochloride

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Donepezil Hydrochloride

Donepezil hydrochloride is a reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor available as film-coated tablets in 5 mg and 10 mg strengths for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Overview

Donepezil hydrochloride is a reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor available as film-coated tablets in 5 mg and 10 mg strengths for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Uses

Indicated for the treatment of dementia of the Alzheimer's type. Efficacy has been demonstrated in patients with mild, moderate, and severe Alzheimer's Disease.

Dosage

Mild to moderate disease: 5-10 mg once daily. Moderate to severe disease: 10 mg once daily. Initial dose is 5 mg in the evening before retiring, with advancement to 10 mg only after 4-6 weeks at the lower dose. May be taken with or without food.

Side Effects

Most common adverse reactions include nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, vomiting, muscle cramps, fatigue, and anorexia. Post-marketing reports include serious conditions like heart block, hepatitis, and convulsions.

Interactions

Cholinesterase inhibitors may interfere with anticholinergic medications and produce synergistic effects with succinylcholine, neuromuscular blocking agents, or cholinergic agonists.

Warnings

Monitor for cholinergic crisis symptoms including bradycardia and heart block. Risk of nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly with NSAIDs. Potential for seizures, bladder obstruction, and respiratory complications in patients with asthma or pulmonary disease. Contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to donepezil or piperidine derivatives.

Pregnancy

Animal studies showed no teratogenic effects during organogenesis but demonstrated increased stillbirths and reduced offspring survival at clinically relevant doses.

Storage

Store at 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C); excursions permitted to 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Donepezil Hydrochloride used for?

Indicated for the treatment of dementia of the Alzheimer's type. Efficacy has been demonstrated in patients with mild, moderate, and severe Alzheimer's Disease.

What are the side effects of Donepezil Hydrochloride?

Most common adverse reactions include nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, vomiting, muscle cramps, fatigue, and anorexia. Post-marketing reports include serious conditions like heart block, hepatitis, and convulsions.

Can I take Donepezil Hydrochloride during pregnancy?

Animal studies showed no teratogenic effects during organogenesis but demonstrated increased stillbirths and reduced offspring survival at clinically relevant doses.

What are the important warnings for Donepezil Hydrochloride?

Monitor for cholinergic crisis symptoms including bradycardia and heart block. Risk of nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly with NSAIDs. Potential for seizures, bladder obstruction, and respiratory complications in patients with asthma or pulmonary disease. Contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to donepezil or piperidine derivatives.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.